The Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) departed the Black Sea, May 21, after conducting maritime security operations and theater security engagements with allies and partners.

Oscar Austin's operations in the Black Sea were a demonstration of the U.S. commitment to collective security with NATO allies and partners in the region.

Quote:

"Operating in the Black Sea provided opportunities for us to work with our NATO partners to increase warfighting proficiency, continue building interoperability among units, and strengthen the U.S. partnership with regional allies."
- Cmdr. Janice Smith, commanding officer, USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79)

Quick Facts:

* Oscar Austin entered the Black Sea, May 5, to demonstrate the U.S. commitment to the collective security of its NATO allies and partners as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve.

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

* 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 allied, joint, and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.

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

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