The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) departed Constanta, Romania Dec. 20 after completing a scheduled port visit as part of their continued Black Sea presence and support to our NATO allies and regional partners.

While in port, the ship hosted a number of Romanian officials for a luncheon and a tour of the ship. Crewmembers discussed the multi-mission capabilities of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer and the mutually beneficial partnership between the U.S. and Romania.

Additionally, Ross’ Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Committee organized games of basketball and soccer between Ross crewmembers and local Romanian Naval Academy students.

“A large number of the crew has had the opportunity to visit Constanta before, including myself” said Cmdr. Dave Coles, commanding officer of Ross. “No matter how many times you return, the hospitality and generosity of the Romanian people never ceases to amaze me. Team Ross is always happy to see Constanta on the schedule.”

This is the seventh time a U.S. Navy vessel has conducted operations in the Black Sea in 2019. The ship entered the Black Sea on Dec. 15th to strengthen interoperability with NATO allies and partners and demonstrate the collective resolve to Black Sea security.

The U.S. Navy routinely operates in the Black Sea consistent with international law, including the Montreux Convention.

U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.