The CSG’s arrival marks the first time Ronald Reagan has entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO) since 2012.
The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), flagship of the Ronald Reagan carrier strike group (CSG), along with guided-missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) and guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97), entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations ob June 25, the US Navy announced.
While in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, the CSG will operate and train alongside regional and coalition partners, and provide airpower to protect U.S. and coalition forces as they conduct drawdown operations from Afghanistan.
“Our commitment to regional stability strengthens those we sail with and discourages anyone who would seek to disrupt international norms, no matter where we deploy in the world,” said Rear Adm. Will Pennington, commander, Task Force 50, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5. “The carrier strike group has professional Sailors with unmatched capability. We will fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows.”
As an inherently flexible manoeuvre force, capable of supporting routine and contingency operations, the carrier’s presence demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s commitment to regional partners and maritime security.
Deploying units of the strike group, commanded by Pennington, including Ronald Reagan, Shiloh, Halsey, the embarked aircraft of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, and the embarked CTF 70 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 staffs.
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