According to AIS tracking data obtained by CNN, the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli was nearing Singapore Tuesday morning, which means the US marines onboard will reach Iran early next week.

The ship could play a key role in an assault on Kharg island (Irans Oil distribution terminal), or the Iranian coast line.

The 257 meter long vessel normally travels alongside multiple smaller warships and carries several types of modern aircraft including F-35B fighter jets and Osprey helicopters.