The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (ABECSG) departed Naval Station Norfolk for Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), Jan. 25.

COMPTUEX is a certification exercise that assesses a strike group’s ability to conduct military operations at sea and project power ashore through joint planning and execution of challenging and realistic training scenarios. During COMPTUEX, ABECSG will be evaluated on their ability to integrate all assets of the strike group into a cohesive, multi-mission fighting force, and their ability to carry out sustained combat operations at sea.  The goal of COMPTUEX is to achieve certification for deployment.  

ABECSG is comprised of its flagship, the Nimitz class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) and ships assigned to Destroyer Squadron 2: the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), USS Mason (DDG 87) and USS Nitze (DDG 94).

In addition, the Álvaro de Bazán-class Spanish navy frigate ESPS Méndez Núñez (F 104) is joining CSG 12 for the exercise. Méndez Núñez brings enhanced capabilities in all warfare areas to the strike group, and their addition will be an important opportunity to increase interoperability between the partner nations.

Carrier strike groups have multi-platform capabilities to operate wherever and whenever required, through a variety of mission sets. In addition to possessing the flexibility and sustainability to fight major wars and ensure freedom of the seas, CSGs are visible and powerful symbols of U.S. commitment and resolve to our allies, partners and friends, lend assistance in the wake of natural disasters, train with partner nations, and demonstrate U.S. commitment with every overseas port visit.

As the U.S. Navy addresses more complex, rapidly evolving challenges around the globe, the ABECSG must be able to adapt and respond quickly when called upon. After successful completion of COMPTUEX, ABECSG will be certified for deployed operations.

The components of the Abraham Lincoln Strike Group embody a “team-of-teams” concept, combining advanced surface, air and systems assets to create and sustain operational capability. This enables them to prepare for and conduct global operations, have effective and lasting command and control, and demonstrate dedication and commitment to become the strongest warfighting force for the Navy and the nation.

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