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Carl Vinson Unites with Argentina for Southern Seas 2010

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100309-04
Release Date: 3/9/2010 12:28:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Jason Thompson, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

USS CARL VINSON, At sea (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) will conduct operations with Argentina March 8-10 off the coast of the South American nation as part of Southern Seas 2010, in an exercise designated "GRINGO-GAUCHO" by the Argentine Navy.

Southern Seas 2010 is a component of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command Partnership of the Americas.

"We are happy to have the opportunity to work with the Argentines, especially as they celebrate their bicentennial this year," said Rear Adm. Ted Branch, commander, Carrier Strike Group 1. "Our time here will have extra meaning as we build upon our partnership together."

Carl Vinson along with USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), Destroyer Squadron 1 and components from Carrier Air Wing 17 expect to conduct various naval exercises including military-to-military exchanges, an air wing exchange, cross-deck operations for Argentine helicopters and low approaches from Argentine aircraft.

"By working side by side we are best able to improve the interoperability between our militaries and improve our capabilities together," said Branch. "We're seeking to take advantage of every opportunity during our transit to further enhance the already strong relationship with Argentina."

Carl Vinson recently participated in similar operations with Brazil and Uruguay as they continue Southern Seas 2010.

"The opportunity to operate with the Argentine Navy is one that does not come along very often for U.S. Navy aircraft carriers," said Vinson's Commanding Officer Capt. Bruce H. Lindsey. "We look forward to learning valuable lessons from each other during our time here that will benefit all of us for years to come."

The Argentine Navy participated in last year's amphibious Southern Partnership Station deployment with USS Oak Hill (LSD 52), which included the delivery of two UH-3 helicopters to the Argentines.

Carl Vinson is participating in Southern Seas 2010 as part of a scheduled homeport shift to San Diego.