A Navy destroyer has deployed to the Gulf of America on a mission usually reserved for the U.S. Coast Guard to help deter illegal crossings and drug trafficking as part the military’s efforts to bolster security along the southern border.

The Pentagon has deployed a Navy destroyer to amplify security at the U.S.-Mexico border. The warship previously engaged in combat against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Middle East and will charter waters typically patrolled by the U.

The vessel is commonly used in overseas missions. The Coast Guard typically takes a lead role in security missions at sea close to the United States.