U.S. Sends Two Carrier Strike Groups to the Mediterranean
Ocean News
The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) transits the Strait of Gibraltar, entering the Mediterranean Sea as it continues operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. Abraham Lincoln is underway as part of the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (ABECSG) deployment in support of maritime security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th, 6th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. Photo credit: Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clint Davis, U.S. Navy
The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (CSG) joined the Abraham Lincoln CSG in the Mediterranean, providing a unique opportunity for two strike groups to work together alongside key allies and partners in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations. Multiple media reports interpreted the action as a clear message to Russia, which has expanded its military presence in the region since joining forces in Damascus with Syria in 2015.
This is the first time that two carriers have operated in the Mediterranean at the same time since the summer of 2016, when the Dwight D. Eisenhower and Harry S. Truman CSGs were deployed to the region simultaneously.
“It’s a rare opportunity to train with two carrier strike groups together,” Vice Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti, commander of U.S. 6th Fleet, said. “Dual carrier operations here in the Mediterranean showcase the inherent flexibility and scalability maritime forces provide to the joint force, while demonstrating our ironclad commitment to the stability and security of the region.”
During their deployments, the CSGs will work with a number of our regional allies and partners at sea, creating opportunities for high-end maritime integration in a challenging environment while improving collective proficiency and interoperability.
“These combined operations will enhance combat readiness and interoperability with key allies and partners, and ensure our forces are better prepared to carry out a full range of missions, anytime, anywhere, around the world,” Franchetti said.
USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) deployed from Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, Oct. 15, 2018, while USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) deployed from Naval Station Norfolk, April 1, 2019. The carriers are in the midst of a homeport shift, with Stennis eventually heading to Norfolk and Lincoln heading to San Diego.
U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Asia.
