The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) departed the Black Sea April 28 after conducting maritime security operations in the region.

While in the Black Sea, the ship participated in three bilateral naval interoperability exercises with the Bulgarian Navy, Georgian Coast Guard, and Turkish Navy. Exercises included maritime interdiction, tactical communications, formation maneuvering, and underway replenishment.

“Our operations in the Black Sea are a clear and tangible demonstration of the inherent flexibility and capability of naval forces, which in turn allows us to maintain the right presence where it’s needed,” Cmdr. David Coles, commanding officer of Ross, said.

Ross entered the Black Sea April 14 to strengthen interoperability with NATO allies and partners and demonstrate our collective resolve for security in the region.

Ross is the fourth U.S. naval vessel to conduct operations in the Black Sea in 2019. The U.S. Navy routinely operates in the Black Sea consistent with international law, as well as with 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.

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