U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa / U.S. 6th Fleet:

The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) entered the Black Sea on March 20, 2021 and was joined today by the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) on a routine patrol to maintain maritime security alongside other NATO Allies and partners.

Upon entering the Black Sea, Monterey conducted multi-domain air and surface warfare integration operations with F/A-18 Super Hornets from the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group’s Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, Turkish and U.S. Air Forces Europe and Africa KC-135s, a Navy P-8A from Commander, Task Force 67, and NATO aircraft. These operations are part of a continual integration of air and maritime units operating across the U.S. European Command area of responsibility.

“Monterey’s presence in the Black Sea reinforces our continued commitment to operate with our NATO Allies,” said Capt. Joseph A. Baggett, Commanding Officer, USS Monterey (CG 61). “Together, we enhance security and stability in the region through cooperation, understanding and collaboration. These efforts and our cooperative relationships are key in safeguarding the region’s vital links to the global economy.”

The surface ships entered the Black Sea to participate in the Romania-led exercise Sea Shield…

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