This the first deployment of U.S. forces to Saudi Arabia since the Sept 14 attack on Abqaiq, one of the world's most important oil production facilities, located in Eastern Saudi Arabia. 

Earlier this summer, elements of the 621st Contingency Response Wing were sent to Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia's central desert in order to prepare the airfield for renewed operations after being closed in 2003 following the invasion of Iraq. This is the likely initial destination of the new deployments, all of which is taking place at the invitation of the Saudi government.

It is expected in the coming weeks and months that U.S. and European force numbers will increase significantly.