DOD sending military hardware to Saudi Arabia to deter Iran

The Defense Department will deploy to Saudi Arabia an additional Patriot battery, four Sentinel radar systems and 200 personnel to deter Iran, according to a statement from the Pentagon.

"This deployment will augment the kingdom's air and missile defense of critical military and civilian infrastructure," chief Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said. "This deployment augments an already significant presence of U.S. forces in the region."

Additionally, Hoffman said Defense Secretary Mark Esper has approved a "Prepare to Deploy Order" for two additional Patriot batteries and one Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system.

"While no decision has been made to deploy these additional forces, they will maintain a heightened state of readiness," Hoffman said.

The deployment of U.S. forces comes in response to an alleged Iranian drone and cruise missile attack on Saudi oil fields Sept. 14.

"It is important to note these steps are a demonstration of our commitment to regional partners, and the security and stability in the Middle East," Hoffman said.