Photo By Sgt. Griffin Payne | A U.S. Army Stryker armored vehicle assigned to the 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry...... read more read more
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FORT BLISS, TEXAS - Recently, the Department of Defense (DoD) authorized the deployment of Stryker armored vehicles to assist Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in detecting and monitoring activity to enhance security at the U.S. southern border.
Securing the U.S. southern border is the top priority for the DoD. The deployment of the Stryker vehicles is not just about enhancing capability; it also showcases a strategic shift in how military resources are being utilized. The last time the Stryker vehicles were deployed to the southern border was in 2012.
On April 5, 2025, approximately 50 Stryker armored vehicles, assigned to 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT), 4th Infantry Division, arrived at Fort Bliss, Texas. While a handful of Strykers were already operational at the southern border, this equipment provides a significant increase in the brigade capabilities.
2nd SBCT is responsible for supporting CBP from Yuma, Ariz. to Big Bend National Park, Texas. Subordinate battalions coordinate directly with a single border patrol sector, who are responsible for the strategic placement of military personnel and equipment.
“This mission provides an opportunity for Soldiers to put on their kit everyday and conduct military operations, said Lt. Col. Chad Campbell, Commander of 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment. “We are executing our mission essential tasks, and use of our Strykers is a part of that.”
2nd SBCT mobilized approximately 2,400 Soldiers in support of the southern border. The deployment of the Stryker vehicles ensures readiness is maintained for both the Soldiers and equipment of the brigade.
Stryker's are eight-wheeled, armored vehicles. They are designed for versatility, and equipped with a central tire inflation system, allowing them to adjust to the terrain along the border. The Stryker vehicles can reach speeds up to 60 mph and have a range exceeding 300 miles on approximately 50 gallons of fuel, enabling them to patrol actively rather than remain stationary. The vehicle requires a crew of two, and can transport a nine-man infantry squad.
The Strykers deployed to the southern border are equipped with a M153 Remotely Operated Weapon Station, commonly known as CROWS. This equipment acts as a mount and camera system typically used to assist crew served weapons in acquiring targets. However, for this mission the M153 is used solely as a camera system capable of monitoring and detecting illegal activity along the border. It provides operators with accurate location data during both day and night, up to two miles away. Once the crew detects movement it is communicated to CBP agents for law enforcement interdiction.
The integration of Stryker vehicles maximizes the capability of 2nd SBCT, who plays a crucial role in safeguarding the U.S. southern border. As the mission continues to evolve, the integration of Stryker vehicles demonstrates a strong commitment to both unit readiness and the safety and security of the nation.
| Date Taken: | 04.05.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 04.18.2025 15:04 |
| Story ID: | 494665 |
| Location: | FORT BLISS, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 252 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, The impact of Stryker vehicles at the southern border, by Adrianna Douglas, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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