The Pentagon has directed elements of the U.S. Army’s elite 82nd Airborne Division to deploy to the Middle East, including its command structure and an infantry brigade of several thousand troops, according to U.S. officials.

The 82nd Airborne specializes in rapid deployment, with forces trained to parachute into hostile or contested territory to seize and secure key infrastructure such as airfields.

Officials say the move represents a significant reinforcement of U.S. forces in the region, coming amid rising tensions with Iran and increasing indications that Washington is preparing contingency options, including the possibility of a ground operation.