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USS Colorado (BB-45) was a battleship of the United States Navy that was in service from 1923 to 1947.

She was the lead ship of the Colorado class of battleships. Her keel was laid down on 29 May 1919, by the New York Shipbuilding Corporation. She was launched on 22 March 1921, and commissioned on 30 August 1923. She was armed with eight 16-inch (406 mm) guns and fourteen 5-inch (127 mm) deck guns;Continue reading “USS Colorado (BB-45) was a battleship of the United States Navy that was in service from 1923 to 1947.”

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Photos: Historic SS United States Begins Final Journey to Become World’s Largest Artificial Reef

Photos: Historic SS United States Begins Final Journey to Become World’s Largest Artificial Reef

Onlookers watch, as SS United States, a retired American ocean liner, that was built during 1950 and 1951 for United States Lines, is towed out to sea on the Delaware River, on her way to Alabama where she is intended to be sunk to create an artificial reef, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., February 19, 2025. REUTERS/Matthew Hatcher

The iconic SS United States, holder of the transatlantic speed record, has departed Philadelphia after nearly three decades at berth, embarking on its final journey to become the world’s largest artificial reef.

Following multiple delays and a U.S. Coast Guard review of towing operations, the historic vessel finally left on Wednesday under escort by a fleet of tugs, led by the US-flagged Vinik No. 6. The ship is now en route to Mobile, Alabama, where it will undergo a 12-month environmental remediation process before being intentionally sunk off the coast of Okaloosa County, Florida.

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Launched in 1951, the SS United States‘ impressive history includes transporting presidents, celebrities, and immigrants. During the Cold War, it was designed with the capability to convert into a troop carrier, able to transport 14,000 troops over 10,000 miles without refueling.

Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon highlighted the environmental and tourism benefits: “This accomplishment confirms our commitment to remain good stewards of the environment, while also enhancing our community’s status as a premier diving and fishing destination.”

The coastal journey is expected to take approximately two weeks, with the route specifically chosen to minimize fuel consumption and avoid challenging ocean currents. While the exact deployment location off Destin-Fort Walton Beach remains undetermined, officials confirm it will be accessible to divers of varying skill levels.

Source: currinsnavalandmaritme

Commanding officer of USS Harry S Truman relieved of duties following collision

The commanding officer of the USS Harry S Truman has been relieved of duty following a collision with a merchant vessel earlier this month.

Captain Dave Snowden was removed from command due to a “loss of confidence in his ability to command,” the US Navy stated.

He had been in charge of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier since December 2023.

The decision follows an incident earlier this month when the Truman collided with the merchant vessel Besiktas-M while operating in the Mediterranean Sea near Port Said, Egypt.

In his place, Captain Christopher Hill, currently the commanding officer of the USS Dwight D Eisenhower will serve as Truman’s interim commanding officer.

Following the collision, USS Harry S Truman arrived at US Naval Support Activity Souda Bay in Greece for emergency repairs.

The damage assessment includes the exterior wall of two storage rooms and a maintenance space.

External damage was also sustained to a line handling space, the fantail, and a platform above one of the storage areas.

Despite the damage, the ship remained fully mission-capable and continued flight operations before entering port.

The Harry S Truman Carrier Strike Group consists of the aircraft carrier, Carrier Air Wing 1 (which includes eight aviation squadrons), and staff from Carrier Strike Group 8 and Destroyer Squadron 28.

Supporting ships include the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg and three Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers: USS Stout, USS The Sullivans, and USS Jason Dunham.

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Source: currinsnavalandmaritme

Along with RAN and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) assets, Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) frigate HMNZS Te Kaha (F77) was shadowing the PLAN task group, Marles said.

Along with RAN and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) assets, Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) frigate HMNZS Te Kaha (F77) was shadowing the PLAN task group, Marles said.

Commercial Flights Rerouted After Chinese Navy Announces Last-Minute Live-Fire Drills Near Australia

Dzirhan Mahadzir

Commercial airliners flying over the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand were forced to reroute their flights on Friday morning Australian time because of a People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) action group warning that it would conduct live-fire drills.

Australia had earlier announced on Feb. 13 that it was monitoring the PLAN task group, comprised of cruiser CNS Zunyi (107), frigate CNS Hengyang (568) and fleet oiler CNS Weishanhu (887) while the PLAN ships were operating north of Australia. The task group has since sailed into the Tasman Sea, which lies between Australia and New Zealand.

On Friday, Australian media channel ABC News reported Emirates flight UAE3HJ from Sydney to Christchurch was directly warned at 11 a.m Sydney time by the PLAN task group to avoid airspace this morning.

Australia’s ABC News also reported commercial pilots have been warned to avoid airspace between Australia and New Zealand because of the drills and that warnings remain in place. Airlines flying over the area are diverting flights.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in a Friday press conference said the PLAN task group was operating outside Australia’s 200 nautical miles exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and that the notice, which was issued in accordance with practice, had expired. He added Australian Defence Force (ADF) Chief Adm. David Johnston had advised that it was not clear if any live fire occurred. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong will make Australia’s representation to China Foreign Minister Wang Yi in a meeting during the G20 summit currently occuring in South Africa.

Albanese also said he discussed the matter with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and that Australian and New Zealand ships and P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft have been monitoring the PLAN task group.

In an interview with ABC Radio, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said the Australian government had not been directly informed by China about the live firing. “To be clear, we weren’t notified by China… What China did was put out a notification that it was intending to engage in live firing. By that I mean a broadcast that was picked up by airlines or literally planes that were commercial planes that were flying across the Tasman (Sea),” said Marles according to a transcript.

He went on to say the PLAN task group was operating in international waters and in compliance with international law, but when the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) conducted live firings, Australia would give 12-24 hours notice so airlines could properly plan around such activities. Marles said the situation was very disconcerting for the planes that were flying, but they were able to divert and no one was placed in danger.

The Australian Deputy Prime Minister said Australia would make representations to the Chinese government in Canberra and Beijing. “Firstly, in respect of what it is they are seeking to achieve in terms of the live fire exercises in this particular place, but also why more notice was not provided such that less disruption would have occurred,” said Marles.

Along with RAN and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) assets, Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) frigate HMNZS Te Kaha (F77) was shadowing the PLAN task group, Marles said. “So, there’s a very coordinated effort here between Australia and New Zealand to make sure that we’re monitoring all that the Chinese Task group are doing, so long as they are in our vicinity. And we’ll keep doing that until the task group leaves. And whenever their mission is over, we will fully assess exactly what it is that they’ve been trying to achieve,” stated Marles.

Australia’s Defence Department on Thursday also released three images dated Feb. 13 showing frigate HMAS Arunta (FFH151) shadowing the PLAN surface action group.

Te Kaha left Devonport Naval Base on Feb. 12 for a six-month Middle East deployment. It is unclear as to whether its shadowing the PLAN task group has delayed its expected arrival in the Middle East. The RNZN has a limited number of ships, with a total fleet of eight ships – two being inshore patrol craft. Te Kaha’s sister, HMNZS Te Mana (F111), was last reported in August 2024 to be in an extended maintenance period, while fleet oiler HMNZS Aotearoa (A11) is currently in the Antarctic conducting a resupply mission to research stations there. This leaves offshore patrol vessels HMNZS Otago (P148) and HMNZS Wellington (P55) and multi-role vessel HMNZS Canterbury (L421) available.

In an interview with New Zealand radio channel Newstalk ZB on Thursday, New Zealand Defence Minister Judith Collins called the PLAN despatching ships with advanced capabilities to operate around Australia and New Zealand and unusual move. “They’re really quite stunning pieces of equipment and we’ve never seen them in this area before,” said Collins.

The New Zealand Defence Minister said New Zealand has a number of assets – including its P-8A Poseidons, frigates and others – to monitor the PLAN ships, “and we’re working along with the Australians just to keep an eye on things and make sure everyone knows we’re watching.”

The PLAN surface task group had been earlier reported by the Philippines military as transiting through the Philippines’ archipelagic sea lanes from Feb.1-4. The Philippines military claimed that the transit was not conducted in accordance with international norms, with the PLAN ships transiting without prior diplomatic coordination and maintaining unusually slow speeds during the transit.

Meanwhile, an Iranian Navy task group consisting of frigate IRIS Dena (75) and naval auxiliary IRIS Shahid Marjni docked into the Port Klang Cruise Terminal on Friday for an operational visit, according to a Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) social media post. Official Malaysian shipping schedules showed that the Iranian ships will depart on Monday and that their last port of call before Port Klang was Bandar Abbas, Iran.

The Port Klang Cruise Terminal was the one-time base of operations for Leonard ‘Fat Leonard’ Francis though it has since undergone a succession of owners, with the U.S. Navy resuming carrier visits there with the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (CSG) in November 2024 and the Carl Vinson CSG over the new year period. The terminal sees regular use by foreign warships because of its proximity to the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur and its availability in contrast to the commercial ports located nearby.

The purpose of the deployment has not been disclosed, however, earlier Indonesian media reports had stated that Iran will send a naval task group for the Indonesian Navy’s multilateral exercise Komodo 2025 held in Bali from Feb. 15-22. However, the task group is now too late to participate in that.

Iran deployed a task group to the Indo-Pacific in 2022-2023 with Dena and Expeditionary Sea Base IRIS Makran (441), calling into Jakarta in November 2022 before being sighted in French Polynesia in December and subsequently in the Australian EEZ. USNI News reported in January 2023 that the Iranian ships were headed to Brazil and reported in April 2023 that the two ships were in South Africa.

Source: currinsnavalandmaritme

USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) Deploys to Fourth Fleet

USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) Deploys to Fourth Fleet

NORFOLK, VIRGINIA – The Arleigh-Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) departs Naval Station Mayport, Florida to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations, Feb. 18.

Thomas Hudner will deploy to the U.S. Southern Command Area of Responsibility (USSOUTHCOM AOR) to support bilateral and multinational maritime operations with partners in the region and conduct Theater Security Cooperation (TSC) port visits.

“The crew of the USS Thomas Hudner is proud to answer the call for presence in USSOUTHCOM AOR,” said Cmdr. Cameron Ingram, USS Thomas Hudner Commanding Officer. “Our Team is ready to ensure maritime freedom of action in the Caribbean, protect our interests throughout the region and strengthen maritime partnerships.”

Thomas Hudner returned to Mayport, Florida after an eight-month deployment to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe – Africa area of operations, Jan. 4, 2024. Thomas Hudner was assigned to the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (CSG). During the deployment, Thomas Hudner served as an air defense unit for the strike group off the coast of Israel, and worked closely with Allies and Partners on a variety of missions. Additionally, Thomas Hudner led a Surface Action Group comprised of Allied and Partner nations in the English Channel, designed to flex advanced Surface Warfare and Subsurface Warfare tactics.

U.S. 4th Fleet employs maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations in order to maintain access, enhance interoperability, and build enduring partnerships that foster regional security in the USSOUTHCOM AOR.

USSOUTHCOM AOR encompasses 31 countries and 16 dependencies and areas of special sovereignty, including the land mass of Latin America south of Mexico, waters adjacent to Central and South America, and the Caribbean Sea. The region represents about one-sixth of the landmass of the world assigned to regional unified commands.

U.S. Fleet Forces Command is responsible for manning, training, equipping, and providing combat-ready forces forward to numbered fleets and combatant commanders around the globe.

Source: currinsnavalandmaritme

HMS Somerset in high-stakes cat-and-mouse chase with allied submarines in Arctic – 19th February 2025 at 1:05pm

HMS Somerset chased allied submarines on Exercise Arctic Dolphin (Picture: Royal Navy)

Royal Navy frigate HMS Somerset has spent two weeks hunting allied submarines in the Norwegian fjords, engaging in a tense cat-and-mouse game to push trainee commanders to their limits.

The Plymouth-based warship took part in Exercise Arctic Dolphin, working with Norwegian, Danish and Dutch forces to test submarine captains as they attempted to qualify for frontline command.

The exercise also allowed HMS Somerset to sharpen her anti-submarine warfare skills, operating alongside a Merlin Mk2 helicopter from 814 Naval Air Squadron, known as the Flying Tigers.

HMS Somerset and its Merlin helicopter played the role of adversaries, relentlessly tracking Norwegian and Dutch submarines.

The Royal Navy crew executed full-speed charges, evasive manoeuvres, and coordinated searches to keep the submarines under pressure.

“The training has been a game of cat and mouse; there were occasions when we (the aircraft) had the advantage over the submarine and also occasions where the submarine made it very difficult for us,” Lieutenant Charlie Homer said.

The submariners were undertaking the equivalent of the Royal Navy’s Perisher course, officially known as the Submarine Command Course, a gruelling training programme required to command a submarine.

The Merlin Mk2, one of the world’s most advanced anti-submarine warfare helicopters, played a key role in the exercise.

Its sonar buoys, active dipping sonar, and infrared cameras were used to track the submarines in the fjords’ confined waters.

The aircraft also worked with Nato allies, flying alongside P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft from the UK, Norway, and the US, as well as Danish Navy Seahawk and French NH90 helicopters.

There was also an opportunity for the Merlin crew to land on the Danish frigate HDMS Niels Juel.

Sailors from HMS Somerset also had the rare chance to experience life aboard a Dutch Walrus-class submarine, HNLMS Zeeleeuw.

“I had the great opportunity to visit HNLMS Zeeleeuw and witness Submarine Command Course runs from the control room,” Lieutenant Gregor Phillips, Submarine Liaison Officer, said.

Source: currinsnavalandmaritme

U.S., Japan and French Naval Forces Wrap Up Drills in Philippine Sea

Dzirhan Mahadzir – February 19, 2025 12:41 PM

Aircraft from the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group (VINCSG) and French Carrier Strike Group (CSG) fly in formation over the Philippine Sea with ships from VINCSG, French CSG, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), and U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) during Pacific Steller 2025, Feb. 12. U.S. Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group, French CSG and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer carrier JS Kaga (DDH-184) completed Exercise Pacific Steller 2025, held in the Celebes Sea and Philippine Sea on Tuesday, according to the JMSDF.
The JMSDF also announced on Tuesday that it will conduct bilateral exercises with U.S. Navy amphibious and mine countermeasures ships around Okinawa from Wednesday to Mar. 2.

Pacific Steller 2025 kicked off on Feb. 8 and featured the Carl Vinson CSG with carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), cruiser USS Princeton (CG-59), and destroyers USS Sterett (DDG-104) and USS William P. Lawrence (DDG-110). Fleet oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO-199), dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE-10) and a P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft also participated in the drills.

The French CSG’s participation included carrier FS Charles De Gaulle (R91), destroyer FS Forbin (D620), frigates FS Provence (D652) and FS Alsace (D656) and fleet oiler FS Jacques Chevallier (A725), in addition to two French Navy Atlantique 2 MPAs forward-deployed to the region to support the CSG. A French Navy nuclear-powered attack submarine is also deployed with the CSG, but the French Navy has not publicly disclosed any of the submarine’s activity. Japan deployed Kaga, destroyer JS Akizuki (DD-115) and a P-3C Orion Maritime Patrol Aircraft for the exercise.

The drills included anti-submarine warfare, air defense, cross-decking, and replenishment at sea exercises. Jacques Chevalier performed a replenishment at sea for Kaga, Princeton and Sterret. The fleet oiler and one of the French Navy frigates detached from the group on Feb. 11 and pulled into White Beach Okinawa on Feb. 13 to perform monitoring operations in support of U.N. sanctions on North Korea. One of the Atlantique 2 also deployed to support the mission.

Cross-deck operations included F/A-18F Super Hornets and a CMV-22B Osprey from Carl Vinson landing on and taking off from Charles De Gaulle. In turn, Charles De Gaulle’s embarked Rafale fighters landed on and launched from Carl Vinson.

On Friday U.S. Pacific Fleet commander Adm. Steve Koehler met with Adm. Nicolas Vaujour, the Chief of the French Navy, aboard Charles De Gaulle.

“Professionalism is making the extremely difficult look routine and easy when it is not, and you are example of that,” Koehler said while addressing the crew via the shipboard announcement system, according to a Pacific Fleet news release.
“Our professional militaries do amazing things together on a regular basis, and Pacific Steller is another example of that. Your historic 2025 deployment highlights your ability to integrate and operate alongside like-minded partners to continue to deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific.”

Meanwhile, from Wednesday to March 2, JMSDF tank landing ship JS Kunisaki (LST-4003) and minesweepers JS Awaji (MSO-304) and JS Chichijima (MSC-605) will carry out a bilateral exercise near Okinawa with amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA-6), amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD-47), expeditionary sea base USS John L. Canley (ESB-6) and mine countermeasures ship USS Warrior (MCM-10), according to a JMSDF news release issued Tuesday. The bilateral drills are likely the naval part of the U.S. Marine Corps – Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Iron Fist 25, which begins on Wednesday and ends on March 7. A JGSDF release said the JMSDF ships, America and Rushmore would participate in Iron Fist 25.

USS Tripoli (LHA-7) will replace America later this year as the forward-deployed big-deck based out of Japan, USNI News recently reported. The America Amphibious Ready Group consists of America, Rushmore and amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD-22) with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked. San Diego is likely heading to Thailand to take part in the annual U.S.-Thailand multinational exercise Cobra Gold 2025. Those drills begin on Feb. 25 and include an amphibious exercise, according to a U.S Embassy in Thailand news release. The U.S. has participated in past iterations of the exercise with an amphibious ship and embarked U.S Marines. The America ARG and embarked 31st MEU are the only ARG/MEU currently deployed in the Indo-Pacific.

America is currently conducting routine operations in the Philippine Sea while elements of the 31st MEU have been conducting visit, board, search and seizure exercises on John L. Canley. Prior to this, the America ARG and 31st MEU were conducting joint maritime and air operations with other U.S. forces in the East China Sea.

“In support of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and Special Operations Command Pacific, in conjunction with Naval Special Warfare Command, U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. Pacific Air Forces, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific and U.S. Cyber Command recently conducted air and maritime operations in the East China Sea to increase joint force lethality and readiness and demonstrate peace through strength for a free and open Indo-Pacific,” reads a U.S. Special Operations Command Pacific social media post on Feb. 8.

Source: currinsnavalandmaritme

Chinese Navy Tracks First U.S. Taiwan Strait Transit under Trump Administration

Mallory Shelbourne – February 12, 2025 12:54 PM

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) conducts routine underway operations. U.S. Navy Photo

Two U.S. Navy ships sailed through the Taiwan Strait this week as China’s People Liberation Army shadowed the first warship passage in the waters under the new Trump administration.

USS Ralph Johnson (DDG-114), one of the Navy’s forward-deployed destroyers based in Yokosuka, Japan, performed the strait transit with survey ship USNS Bowditch (T-AGS-62), according to a statement from U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. The two ships sailed south through the strait over the course of Feb. 10 through 12.

The People’s Liberation Army Navy and PLA Air Force tracked the transit, according to a spokesman.

“The US’s actions sent the wrong signals and increased security risks. The troops of the Chinese PLA Eastern Theater Command remain on high alert at all times to resolutely safeguard China’s sovereignty and security, as well as regional peace and stability,” PLA Eastern Theater Command spokesman senior Capt. Li Xi said in a statement.

U.S. ships routinely conduct Taiwan Strait transits that China monitors.

The last publicly announced Taiwan Strait transit took place in October, when USS Higgins (DDG-76) and Canadian frigate HMCS Vancouver (FFH-331) sailed through the waters, USNI News reported at the time.

Chinese Navy Tracks First U.S. Taiwan Strait Transit under Trump Administration – USNI News

Source: currinsnavalandmaritme

Historic SS United States Faces New Delays in Final Journey to Become World’s Largest Artificial Reef

Historic SS United States Faces New Delays in Final Journey to Become World’s Largest Artificial Reef

The SS United States, America’s most iconic ocean liner, has encountered another setback in its planned departure from Philadelphia, where the vessel has been docked since 1996.

The U.S. Coast Guard has requested additional details to ensure safe towing operations between Piers 82 and 80, postponing the ship’s February 8th departure. The initial pier transfer—originally planned for November—had been rescheduled for February 6 at 8:21 p.m. during the second high tide.

The historic vessel is destined for Mobile, Alabama, where it will undergo a 12-month environmental remediation process before it is intentionally sunk off the coast of Okaloosa County, Florida, becoming the world’s largest artificial reef. The journey, expected to take approximately 14 days, will follow a coastal route to minimize fuel consumption and avoid challenging ocean currents.

The $10.1 million project represents a significant shift in the vessel’s preservation strategy under its previous owner the SS United States Conversancy. The decision follows October 2024’s formal title transfer to Florida’s Okaloosa County, which came after a prolonged legal dispute with the ship’s pier landlord.

Launched in 1951, the SS United States maintains its status as the transatlantic speed record holder. During the Cold War, the vessel was designed with the capability to serve as a troop carrier, able to transport 14,000 troops across 10,000 miles without refueling.

Following the environmental remediation in Mobile Bay, the ship will require an additional six months to a year before its final deployment as an artificial reef off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach.

The SS United States Conservancy continues to work with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure all necessary approvals and safety measures are in place for this historic transformation.

The vessel’s final journey will require careful coordination with the Delaware River Port Authority for bridge closures as it passes under several spans, including the Walt Whitman Bridge (I-76), Commodore Barry Bridge (U.S. 322), and the Delaware Memorial Bridge (I-295).

Historic SS United States Faces New Delays in Final Journey to Become World’s Largest Artificial Reef

Source: currinsnavalandmaritme

Harry S Truman and Jason Dunham Rest Break in Crete

By SeaWaves Magazine

US Navy photo

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and its embarked air wing and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) arrived at U.S. Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay for a working port visit Feb. 6 following two months of combat operations in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

While the strike group’s material readiness is the top priority of the visit, ensuring maintenance and upkeep across the ships and aircraft, Sailors will have the opportunity to enjoy liberty and experience Crete’s rich history and culture.

“I’m incredibly proud of the dedication and service of this team and their tireless work around the clock,” said Capt. Dave Snowden, commanding officer of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). “Their efforts keep our ship operating at peak performance and aircraft ready to support combat operations.”

After entering the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility on Dec. 14, the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) supported multiple self-defense strikes against targets across Iran-backed Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. The strikes directly contributed to CENTCOM’s campaign to degrade the Houthis attempts to threaten regional partners and the free flow of commerce in the region. On Feb. 1, HSTCSG conducted airstrikes against ISIS-Somalia in support of U.S. Africa Command and in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia.

“The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group remains the most adaptable and lethal presence in theater,” said Rear Adm. Sean Bailey, commander, HSTCSG. “This port visit provides the opportunity to reset and focus on maintenance for maximum readiness ahead of future operations.”

The visit is HSTCSG’s third port visit of deployment, following stops in Oslo, Norway, and Marseille, France. NSA Souda Bay is a remote forward operating installation that enables power projection and warfighting capabilities from the Eastern Mediterranean.

“Team Souda is happy to welcome HSTCSG to Crete,” from Capt. Stephen Steacy, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay. “As the crossroads of the 6th Fleet, we are strategically located in the Eastern Mediterranean to support our forward-deployed forces. The hospitality of the local community is unmatched, giving Sailors the opportunity for a much-needed break.”

The Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKECSG) visited NSA Souda Bay for a similar port visit in April 2024. The IKECSG and HSTCSG have operated in the most intense period of sustained combat activity for the U.S. Navy since World War II.

The carrier strike group includes the flagship USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75); Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, with eight embarked aviation squadrons; staffs from CSG-8, CVW-1, and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28; the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64); and two Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers, USS Stout (DDG 55) and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109).

Source: currinsnavalandmaritme