NOTE to students: Before answering the questions, read the “Background” and watch the video under “Resources.”

1. a) What makes the USS Gerald R. Ford so formidable?
b) What vessels/aircraft are accompanying the Ford to the Middle East?

2. What is a carrier strike group?
b) Which carrier strike group is already in the Middle East?

3. For what reason is the Ford going to join the Lincoln?

4. a) How many aircraft does the USS Gerald R. Ford carry?
b) Which specific aircraft are included in this number?

5. a) What is a destroyer?
b) Name the destroyers accompanying the USS Ford.

6. How many additional destroyers does the US. have in the area?

7. How many additional fighter jets has the US moved to the Middle East on Tuesday?

8. a) What capability do the F-35s have?
b) What will this mass deployment allow the US to do?