3 US guided-missile destroyers patrol West Philippine Sea

From Update.Ph (Jun 28): 3 US guided-missile destroyers patrol West Philippine Sea

US Navy photo

United States Navy guided-missile destroyers USS Spruance (DDG 111), USS Momsen (DDG 92), and USS Decatur (DDG 73) – all operating under US 3rd Fleet Pacific Surface Action Group (PAC SAG) – were reunited while on routine patrol in West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), June 27. This was disclosed by the US Navy.

The said PAC SAG, with embarked staff of Destroyer Squadron 31 and embarked “Devil Fish” and “Warbirds” detachments of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 49, was deployed to conduct routine patrols, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation activities to enhance Western Pacific regional security and stability in April.

“This Surface Action Group continues to operate effectively throughout the Pacific and across the spectrum of missions they have been assigned,” said US 3rd Fleet commander Vice Admiral Nora Tyson. “Their deployment is an important part of the ‘3rd Fleet Forward’ concept and we are proud of their performance thus far.”

“For years the Navy has maintained a steadfast presence in the Pacific Fleet and this SAG is proving to be a valuable asset for stability and relations with our partner nations,” said Capt. Charles Johnson, commander, Destroyer Squadron 31. “Through these exercises and security operations we have already begun to enhance our relationships and strategic coordination with our Pacific partners; interoperability.”

The US Navy said it is maintaining a presence in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to help preserve peace and security and to further partnerships with friends and allies. “The forward presence contributes to freedom of navigation and lawful use of the sea, as well as furthers operational training and enables an exchange of culture, skills, and tactical knowledge,” it added.

http://www.update.ph/2016/06/3-us-guided-missile-destroyers-patrol-west-philippine-sea/6822