U.S. Navy evaluates Bahrain base future after Iranian strikes

The U.S. Navy is evaluating the future of Naval Support Activity Bahrain following extensive damage caused by Iranian strikes. The facility, which serves as the headquarters for the U.S. Fifth Fleet and Naval Forces Central Command, has suffered significant destruction that has disrupted its role as a primary logistics hub for American naval operations in the Middle East.

Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao acknowledged the scale of the damage, noting that a task force has been established to determine whether to rebuild the installation or shift military presence elsewhere. Estimates suggest reconstruction costs could reach approximately $400 million. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle indicated that personnel are unlikely to return to the base “anytime soon.”

In addition to the damage in Bahrain, Iranian attacks have also impacted U.S. military aircraft at Jordan’s Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, including damage to an A-10 Thunderbolt and several F-15 fighter jets.