The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG) began participation in Exercise Saxon Warrior '17, Aug. 1.

Saxon Warrior is an exercise designed to develop theater-specific
combat skills, as well as enhance cooperation between U.S. and U.K. forces and governmental agencies.

Led by the Royal Navy's Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST), Saxon Warrior '17 presents a myriad of challenges to the multinational and multi-platform force by creating a diverse and unpredictable war environment based on fictional geo-political and military scenarios.

"Saxon Warrior allows both U.S. and U.K. naval forces a chance to hone our interoperability skills," said Rear Adm. Kenneth Whitesell, commander, Carrier Strike Group 2. "Particularly important is the alignment of U.S. carrier strike groups and the U.K. carrier strike group. This unique opportunity affords the spectrum of warfighting for both strike group staffs, strengthening our military understanding and capability."

The exercise presents an opportunity to face a variety of scenarios that change day to day, providing a tactical contrast that builds upon the in-depth, extended timeline scenario training that began during GHWBCSG's composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX).

The U.K. carrier strike group commander is embarked with their team and is excited to begin an interoperability exercise with our long-standing NATO partners.

"Building on a long history of strong U.S./U.K. relations, Saxon Warrior '17 will demonstrate the key role that the U.K., as a leading NATO nation, plays in regional security," said U.K. Carrier Strike Group Commander Cdre Andrew Betton OBE, Royal Navy. "The exercise will focus on our ability to train together using advanced warfighting capabilities and contribute toward the generation of the U.K. Carrier Strike Group."

Elements from the George H.W. Bush CSG working in concert with the United Kingdom's CSG and maritime units from Germany, Norway and Sweden will sharpen the skills needed for increased interoperability, and proficiency in conducting vital maritime operations around the world.

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