First, I think it can be taken for granted we have that capability in theatre.
Second, the military gives the President options. The expanded list of options two carrier groups, as opposed to one, gives the President may be very important for contingencies in the region including and beyond Iraq.
We have the threat posed to Israel and to Lebanon by Hezbollah and its supporters in Syria and Iran. We also have the chapter 7 resolution concerning Iran. And, we have the continuing collapse of the Iranian economy which might lead, possibly, eventually, to civil and political unrest there.
With the progress we are continuing to make in Iraq, in terms of building up that country's security forces, we may soon be able to redeploy our forces, and not to the continental US of A.
It's a two part statement, first have the capability, second, have the will to use it.