The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) departed Larnaca, Cyprus, Oct. 16, during its third forward-deployed patrol after a scheduled port visit.

Donald Cook is on patrol as part of the U.S. European Phased Adaptive Approach to NATO Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD).

Quote:
"Donald Cook enjoyed another port visit from our outstanding Cypriot hosts, and we look forward to conducting another bilateral exercise at sea."
- Cmdr. Charles E. Hampton, commanding officer, USS Donald Cook (DDG 75)

Quick Facts:
* Donald Cook's presence represents a commitment by the U.S. to maintain safety and security throughout Europe.

* Donald Cook is on a routine patrol in support of ballistic missile defense of Europe under Operation Atlantic Resolve. This demonstrates our continued commitment to the collective security of NATO and dedication to enduring peace and stability throughout the region.

* With combined training and theater security cooperation engagements, Donald Cook will demonstrate that the U.S. shares a commitment to working with our allies and partners.

* USS Ross (DDG 71) visited Cyprus in March 2015.

* Donald Cook previously visited Cyprus in July 2014 during a routine patrol in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

* Donald Cook, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on a routine patrol conducting operations with allies and partners in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in order to advance security and stability.

* Donald Cook, the first of the four Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers to be forward deployed in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations, arrived in Rota in February 2014.

* U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint 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 news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.