The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) departed Naval Station Rota, Spain, March 17, to begin its second forward-deployed patrol in support of ballistic missile defense of Europe and Operation Atlantic Resolve.

Ross' forward presence and the ship's participation in combined underway tactical exchanges with allies and partners will strengthen the region's collective capability to ensure stability and security for all.

Quotes:
"USS Ross' deployment from Rota is a good example of the effectiveness of operating forward. We are able to conduct our primary mission - ballistic missile defense - as well as maintain a more meaningful navy-to-navy relationship with our allies and partners."
- Cmdr. Tadd Gorman, USS Ross (DDG 71) commanding officer

Quick Facts:
* This is a routine patrol in support defense of ballistic missile defense of Europe and assurance of allies and partners under Operation Atlantic Resolve. This is a demonstration of continued commitment to the collective security of NATO and dedication to the enduring peace and stability in the region.

* Ross' previous patrol was from July to November 2014, during which it conducted a number of operations and engagements to include participation in Exercise Sea Breeze.

* Ross, the second of four Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers to be forward deployed in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations, arrived in Rota in June 2014. USS Porter (DDG 78) is scheduled to arrive in April 2015, and USS Carney (DDG 64) is scheduled to arrive in the fall.

* The 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, 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/.