Military Deploys 5,200 Troops to Fortify Border

Migrant caravans put pressure on border security loopholes as administration moves to deter thousands

U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents and riot police take part in a border security drill at the US–Mexico international bridge, as seen from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, on Oct. 29, 2018. The Defense Department is sending in reinforcements to CBP to secure the border as large groups of Central Americans approach. (Herika Martinez / AFP) Photo credit should read HERIKA MARTINEZ/AFP/Getty Images

HOUSTON—As two, thousands-strong Central American migrant caravans inch closer to the U.S. border, law enforcement is gearing up to meet them.

By the end of the week, the Department of Defense will have deployed 5,200 active-duty troops to assist with the temporary barricading of the border, as well as provide support to Customs and Border Protection officers.