The US Coast Guard Gulf Strike Team (GST) is a key asset for the United States' ability to respond to a wide array of emergencies, offering an experienced unit that can rapidly deploy anywhere with specialized equipment and skills.

The GST is among the three elite units that comprise the US Coast Guard's National Strike Force (NSF), which provides highly trained personnel in the preparation for and response to the effects of oil discharges, hazardous substance releases, weapon-of-mass-destruction events and other emergencies.

The NSF includes the NSF Coordination Center, Incident Management Assist Team, Public Information Assist Team and Strike Teams in three regions: the Atlantic Strike Team, Pacific Strike Team and GST.

The GST is capable of operating in the most challenging environments, using its extensive experience and cutting-edge equipment.

The team's capabilities include the development and enforcement of site safety plans, the creation and implementation of safety protocols and the supervision and monitoring of contractors during hazardous operations.

Additionally, the GST excels in hazard identification, establishment of work zones and safe salvage operations.

The team's expertise is vital in damage control assessment and assistance, particularly involving railcars, containers or tank trucks.

One of the GST's most critical roles is in oil spill response, where it has honed its skills in containment, recovery and environmental protection.

In addition to oil spills, the GST is prepared to respond to incidents involving weapons of mass destruction, providing critical support in the event of a chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear threat.

Rapid deployment and global reach

The GST is based in Mobile, Alabama, but also has international responsibility for South America, Central America and the Caribbean.

Further, the team's ability to deploy rapidly to any location, domestically or internationally, ensures a swift Coast Guard response to emerging threats.

This capability is particularly crucial in the context of US military operations in the Arabian Gulf.

The Coast Guard maintains a base in Bahrain. That base serves as a strategic hub for operations in the region.

Under the Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA), the GST and other elements of the Coast Guard are poised to support operations in the Middle East.

The mission of PATFORSWA is to equip, deploy and support mission-ready Coast Guard forces to conduct maritime operations across the Middle East.

Under the direction of US Naval Forces Central Command, the GST could deploy rapidly to respond to maritime threats, natural disasters or any other emergencies that arise in this region.