Newsmax: USS Boxer sidelined during early weeks of Iran operation

The USS Boxer amphibious assault ship was unable to take part in combat operations during the early weeks of the U.S. military campaign against Iran because of an engine-related problem, Newsmax reported, citing U.S. officials. 

The ship, carrying members of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, required repairs while sailing towards the Middle East, according to the report.

Newsmax said the Boxer was diverted to the joint U.S.-British base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean and remained there until repairs were completed.

“The USS Boxer was temporarily sidelined during a critical period,” the outlet quoted an unidentified U.S. official as saying.

The mechanical problem limited Washington’s operational options against Iran, Newsmax reported.

The USS Boxer is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship capable of carrying aircraft, helicopters, landing craft and U.S. Marines.

N.Tebrizli