During the visit, Rear Adm. Chase Patrick, director of maritime engagement, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF), will meet with Algerian government and military leaders to discuss shared goals of maritime security and regional stability in the Mediterranean Sea region.

“Partnerships are key to stability in Africa and ultimately promote a safer global environment,” said Patrick. “I appreciate the opportunity to meet with Algerian leaders, as we work together, to confront the multitude of security challenges that threaten peace and security in the Mediterranean.”

Algeria is a steady maritime security partner of the United States, and NAVAF and Coast Guard presence in Algiers highlights the importance of the relationship between the two countries. Last month, Algeria participated in the NAVAF-led north African exercise Phoenix Express 2022. Participating nations exchanged information-sharing practices, enhancing efforts to promote safety and security in the Mediterranean Sea and territorial waters of participating North African nations.

This port visit also marks the first stop in Africa for Clarence Sutphin Jr. and John Scheuerman since their commissioning earlier this year. The two cutters are forward-deployed to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa area of operations and assigned to U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia, while employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet.

“We are excited to strengthen our relations with our counterparts in Algeria and to explore Algiers,” said Lt. David Anderson, commanding officer aboard USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr. (WPC 1147). “Interpersonal relations are a cornerstone of allies and partners’ abilities to work together in ensuring security and stability and we look forward to building on our relationships while in port.”

The Sentinel-class fast response cutter is a key component of the Coast Guard’s offshore fleet capable of deploying independently to conduct missions that include port, waterways and coastal security; fishery patrols; search and rescue; and national defense.

U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area, headquartered in Portsmouth, Virginia, oversees all Coast Guard operations east of the Rocky Mountains to the Arabian Gulf, spanning across five Coast Guard districts and 40 states.

For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability. 

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.