USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (Ike CSG) entered the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations June 8 in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

Ike CSG ships are the centerpiece of the Great Green Fleet initiative, which emphasizes use of energy conservation measures as a key combat enabler to allow ships to go farther, stay longer and deliver more firepower.

Quote:

"The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group looks forward to working with our counterparts in the Italian Navy to demonstrate our mutual commitment to increase energy efficiency," - Rear Adm. Jesse Wilson, commander, Carrier Strike Group 10

Quick Facts:

Great Green Fleet operations in Europe will involve a multi-day passing exercise (PASSEX) with units of the Italian Navy's Flotta Verde. The PASSEX will highlight energy conservation operations and will involve a refueling at sea (RAS) event during which an Italian oiler will refuel Ike CSG ships with advanced alternative fuel (F76 equivalent).

While Ike CSG is involved in Great Green Fleet activities and operations, Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is also conducting combat sorties from the Mediterranean in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, demonstrating the mobility, flexibility and power projection capability of the Navy's globally deployed force -- anytime, anywhere.

The presence of two carrier strike groups in the AOO demonstrate the United States' commitment to safety and security in the region; and provide a variety of multi-mission platforms, capable and ready for tasking. Two CSGs also send a strong message of support to U.S. allies and partners in Europe, and demonstrate the ability to enable global operations that support USEUCOM as well as other Combatant Commands.

Ike CSG consists of aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, guided-missile cruisers USS San Jacinto (CG 56) and USS Monterey (CG 61), and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26 with its associated guided-missile destroyers USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), USS Mason (DDG 87), USS Nitze (DDG 94) and USS Stout (DDG 55).

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.

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