ARABIAN GULF - The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) executed a series of joint air and maritime operations in the Central Arabian Gulf in support of Commander, Task Force 55 and US Naval Central Command, Sept. 23- 24, 2020.
“As maritime threats continue to persist and evolve, the integration of Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard surface and aviation units is integral to building and refining proficiency in a joint environment capable of countering these threats,” said Lt. Tristan Skinner, Supply Officer and Sea Combat Commander watchstander aboard Winston S. Churchill. “Being involved in joint operations such as this prepares us for real world scenarios in which we will be called upon to protect ourselves and our allies, and if needed, eliminate any and all maritime threats.”
These operations further develop tactics, techniques, and procedures for interoperability in the maritime domain in support of future operations.
“I felt like I was able to exercise pre-planned tactical responses while observing how the Coast Guard, Navy Patrol Craft, Navy and Air Force tactical aircraft integrate effectively in kinetic surface warfare,” said Lt. Elizabeth Eiser, Chief Engineer and qualified Tactical Action Officer aboard Winston S. Churchill.
The US Navy routinely trains with other US military branches to enhance maneuverability capabilities by establishing communication and safety standards that strengthen regional maritime security. This exercise involved the coordination of USN coastal patrol boats, F/A-18 fighter jets, MH 60S helicopters, an MH 60R helicopter, a P-8 aircraft, USCG patrol boats and USAF F-15 fighter jets.
“This exercise was the epitome of teamwork and joint operations that we need to constantly sharpen while operating in a compressed battlespace. This high end training allowed all my Bridge and Combat Information Center (CIC) watchstanders to refine their skillsets to best align with the tactics of our fellow surface warriors on the Navy Patrol Craft and Coast Guard Patrol Boats, as well as the aviation expertise of both Navy fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft, and our inter-service Air Force brethren” said Cdr. Timothy Shanley, Commanding Officer aboard Winston S. Churchill.
Winston S. Churchill departed Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 10 for a regularly-scheduled deployment to maintain maritime security and to ensure access, deter aggression, and defend U.S. allied and partner interests around the globe.
U.S. 5th Fleet, headquartered in Manama, Bahrain, conducts joint and naval operations in order to support regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in the Middle East.