US Pacific Fleet Commander joins patrol mission to West Philippine Sea

From Ang Malaya (Jul 19): US Pacific Fleet Commander joins patrol mission to West Philippine Sea

The Commander of United States Navy Pacific Fleet Admiral Scott Swift joined the Patrol Squadron (VP) 45 in a patrol mission to West Philippine Sea July 18. The said mission was also done for the Pacific Fleet Commander to see personally the full-range capabilities of US Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft. Admiral Swift is in the country for a four-day visit that started July 16.

The US Navy said Admiral Swift observed operations aboard a P-8A Poseidon aircraft during a flight hosted by the Pelicans of Patrol Squadron (VP) 45.

“Swift took part in a seven-hour maritime surveillance mission to witness firsthand the full range of the Poseidon’s capabilities,” US Navy added.

During his visit, Swift reassured allies that US is prepared to act against Chinese threat. “We are ready and prepared to respond to any contingency that the President may suggest would be necessary,” he said.

The Philippine Defense department welcomed the Admiral’s statement. “It’s always welcome to hear words of commitment from US officials particular in light of as we faced together an oppressive neighbor,” Defense spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez told state media Philippine New Agency.

“His strong statement as Commander Pacific Fleet indicates the US commitment to maintain stability in the region,” Philippine Navy flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Jesus C. Millan said.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/07/19/12229-us-pacific-fleet-commander-joins-patrol-mission-to-west-philippine-sea