US deploys jets, helicopters to support escort operation

US Central Command said “Project Freedom”, announced by Donald Trump, is supported by more than 100 aircraft and about 15,000 personnel, as the United States began escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz. 

Centcom added, “U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornets launch from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is one of two aircraft carriers enforcing the blockade on Iranian ports while also supporting Project Freedom.”

The command said, “U.S. Navy MH-60 Sea Hawk helicopters are supporting Project Freedom in and near the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier today, Sea Hawk and U.S. Army AH-64 Apache helicopters were used to eliminate Iranian small boats threatening commercial shipping.”

U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornets launch from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is one of two aircraft carriers enforcing the blockade on Iranian ports while also supporting Project Freedom. pic.twitter.com/OZXnJpOSSd

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) May 4, 2026