Military

Navy Ships Surge in Support of Maritime Security

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060124-14
Release Date: 1/24/2006 2:30:00 PM

By Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The Navy is surging three ships Jan. 24 and 25 to conduct maritime security operations in support of the global war on terrorism.

The amphibious dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) and the guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) will deploy with their more than 1,100 Sailors for approximately three months.

These ships will work with allies to detect, disrupt, and deny international terrorist organizations the use of the maritime environment. They will also work closely with allies to build regional security and long-term stability.

“This surge reinforces our commitment to providing security and stability on the high seas,” said Vice Adm. Mark Fitzgerald, commander of U.S. 2nd Fleet. “It is a testament to the flexibility and capability of the Navy to conduct maritime security operations under the Fleet Response Plan, and is a key to winning the war on terrorism.”

Oak Hill, homeported at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Va., will deploy Jan. 24; Roosevelt and Vicksburg, both homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Fla., will deploy Jan. 25.

The U.S. Navy continually positions its forces as required and routinely conducts exercises that support security and stability. According to Fitzgerald, this surge will demonstrate how scaleable, responsive, and uniquely capable naval power can strengthen security in key maritime areas of interest. A simple realignment of schedules, made possible by ships maintaining their readiness under the Fleet Response Plan (FRP), enables the Navy to surge these ships as needed.

This deployment mirrors last year’s surge of USS Saipan (LHA 2), USS Nashville (LPD 13), USS Nicholas (FFG 47), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), and USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44). It provides the Navy and regional combatant commanders an opportunity to exercise the FRP while also maintaining the ability to respond to crises around the globe, enhancing regional security and relationships, meeting combatant commander requirements including forward presence, and demonstrating a commitment to allies and coalition partners in maritime security.