CAIRO: Egyptian officials say two US vessels have crossed the Suez Canal en route to the Mediterranean Sea to be close to Libya.

The nuclear-powered submarine USS Providence and Destroyer USS Mason entered the canal Saturday from the Red Sea.

The officials said the warships are part of the American carrier battle group led by the USS Enterprise. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media.

US military officials have ordered warships into the Mediterranean in case they are needed for Libya-related operations ranging from humanitarian assistance to possible military action.

There are at least five major US warships in the Mediterranean, including the USS Kearsarge with a contingent of US Marines on board.

US destroyer USS Mason sails in the Suez canal in Ismailia, Saturday, March 12. (AP Photo)