The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) entered the Black Sea, May 5, in order to conduct maritime security operations and enhance capability and interoperability with allies and partners in the region.

The ship's operations in the Black Sea are meant to enhance maritime security and stability, and combined readiness and naval capability with our NATO allies and partners.

Quote:

"We're building strong relationships here, which are crucial to peace and stability in the region. Our presence here bolsters confidence and reassures allies of our commitment to security in the Black Sea."
Cmdr. Janice Smith,
commanding officer USS Oscar Austin

Quick Facts:

Oscar Austin entered the Black Sea to demonstrate the U.S. commitment to the collective defense of our NATO allies and partners in the Black Sea region. All DoD efforts in support of our NATO allies in Eastern Europe fall under Operation Atlantic Resolve.

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

Oscar Austin departed its homeport of Norfolk April 17, to conduct maritime security operations in support of U.S. allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in the U.S. 5th and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operations.

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

For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.