Pentagon orders Gulf build-up

The Pentagon has ordered the US Navy to prepare two aircraft carriers and two amphibious assault vessels for possible action in Iraq.

The orders, sent in the last two days, require the Navy to have the vessels ready to sail to the Gulf within 96 hours after a certain date, which defence officials declined to specify.

The ships and the escorts of cruisers, destroyers and submarines would bring a powerful military presence to the region, adding several warships, scores of strike aircraft and about 4,400 Marines to forces in the region.

If the order to sail is given, the USS George Washington battle group would be sent from the Atlantic fleets. The George Washington returned to its base in Norfolk, Virginia, from the region on December 20 and is considered best prepared for action.