The Pentagon is sending 3,000 troops to the US southern border to increase security by having a strong military presence at the border.
Over the next few weeks, troops with the Stryker Brigade Combat Team and the General Support Aviation Battalion will deploy to the southwestern border.
According to The Pentagon, the Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (SBCTs) will bring versatility and swiftness of response to the border:
“Each SBCT is a mechanized infantry force of approximately 4,400 soldiers, and the Army’s nine SBCTs — seven active-duty and two National Guard — are known for their rapid deployment and versatility. Built around the Stryker vehicle — an eight-wheeled armored platform — the brigade balances mobility, protection and firepower. Capable of transport via C-130 Hercules aircraft within 96 hours, the Stryker excels in operations requiring swift response.”
In addition to SBCTs, the General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB), consisting of 650 troops, will bring “aviation muscle,” according to The Pentagon.
In January, the Department of Defense sent 1,500 troops to the border. Currently, there is a total of 9,200 troops at the border. The 3,000 SBCT and GSAB troops will now join them.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth aims to have “100% operational control” of the border:
On February 3, President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on Mexico. These were declared due to the threat posed to the US by drug and human trafficking flowing through the southern border. The tariffs were paused for a month after negotiations with Mexico, including the latter country sending troops to the border. The tariffs will resume on March 4th pending any potential negotiations between Mexico and the US.
President of Mexico Claudia Sheinbaum announced Mexico’s status in light of the looming tariffs:
“It’s a decision that depends on the United States government, on the United States president. So whatever his decision is, we will make our decisions and there is a plan and there is unity in Mexico.”
