The United States is deploying an elite Marine Corps unit to the Middle East, the Telegraph newspaper reported.

According to the report, the operational group consists of 2,500 Marines and is part of an expeditionary rapid-response force trained for amphibious, ground, and air combat operations.

Each expeditionary unit includes a ground combat element with infantry, armored vehicles, and artillery, an aviation group with helicopters and fighter jets, as well as command and logistics support units.

The US has not disclosed the exact nature of the mission. However, the newspaper suggests the unit may be tasked with restoring control over the Strait of Hormuz, the only maritime gateway to the Persian Gulf.

The deployed force also has experience countering drones, with ships and escort vessels equipped with electronic warfare systems.

A retired senior Pentagon official told The New York Times that deploying the expeditionary unit could allow the US to conduct raids on islands near the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran could potentially deploy mine-laying boats.