Satellite images analyzed by The New York Times reveal that Logistical Support Area Jenkins, located about 20 miles inland from the Red Sea coast, began visible development in 2022 and has accelerated its expansion over the past year. The facility now features upgraded troop housing, ammunition storage, and reinforced security.

A Base Built for Contingency

The base’s remote location offers a key strategic advantage: it lies farther from Iran than many other U.S. military outposts, making it less vulnerable to missile strikes. With tensions escalating after recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites and Tehran’s retaliatory missile attacks, the role of L.S.A. Jenkins may grow in importance as a staging and supply ground.

Operational Uncertainty

While the Pentagon has not confirmed whether the base supported last week’s strike mission against Iran, its design and accelerated build-up suggest it is intended for sustained logistical operations in the region, particularly in case of extended hostilities involving Iranian proxies or direct confrontation.

The development of L.S.A. Jenkins reflects long-standing military planning that anticipated future clashes with Iran. The recent uptick in U.S.-Iran tensions, including mutual strikes, has further underlined the need for flexible, resilient logistics infrastructure in the Gulf region. This base supplements U.S. air and naval power with inland operational depth.