The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) began its southbound transit from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea July 14, 2019, after conducting maritime security operations and exercise Sea Breeze 2019.
While in the Black Sea for Sea Breeze 2019, the Carney was able to test interoperability with participating partner navies that included maritime interdiction operations, operational process training, surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and self-defense against small boat attacks.
Sea Breeze 2019 is an annual multinational maritime exercise, with air, land, and amphibious components, and is co-hosted by Ukraine and the United States to enhance interoperability and capabilities among participating forces.
“Operating in the Black Sea during the time of Sea Breeze 2019 was a strategic and unique honor and opportunity, for me and all of the Sailors involved,” said Cmdr. Tyson Young, commanding officer of the Carney. “We were able to build and strengthen friendships with our partners and allies, in addition to increasing combined capability, and capacity to ensure security within the region.”
The Carney entered the Black Sea June 29, 2019 and is the fifth U.S. naval vessel to conduct operations in the Black Sea in 2019. The U.S. Navy routinely operates in the Black Sea consistent with international law, as well as the Montreux Convention.
U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.