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    U.S., U.K and French Aircraft Conduct Dual Carrier Operations in Mediterranean Sea

    UK CSG-21 Supports Ex Steadfast Defender 21

    Photo By 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner | Demonstrating unmatched interoperability, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211, Carrier...... read more read more

    MEDITERRANEAN SEA

    06.03.2021

    Story by 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner 

    3rd Marine Aircraft Wing

    (MEDITERRANEAN SEA) - Demonstrating unmatched interoperability, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 and USS The Sullivans (DDG68), Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 21, participated in dual carrier operations with Her Majesty's Ship Queen Elizabeth and the French Navy (Marine Nationale) Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group.

    Leaders from The U.S. Navy, Royal Navy and French Navy were on hand to witness the carriers training together. During the training, VMFA-211 validated the 5th-generation capabilities of the F-35B by operating jointly and seamlessly with the United Kingdom’s 617 Squadron and French Dassault Rafale’s from the Charles de Gaulle.

    Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael Gilday visited HMS Queen Elizabeth and met with some of the U.S. Marines and Sailors supporting the UK- led CSG.

    Also joining the CSG-21 during this transit was the Italian vessel Andrea Doria. CSG21’s transit of the Mediterranean Sea provides an opportunity to train and exercise with NATO Allies and regional partners. Participation in multinational exercises enhances defense relationships and improves overall coordination and interoperability between allies and partner militaries.

    France is the U.S.’s oldest ally – dating back to 1781 when they supported the U.S. during the Revolutionary War. In the years since, the strong bond between the two allies has only reinforced this relationship in testing joint combat skills through both World Wars and continuing a long-standing tradition of exceptional partnership.

    “Alliances and partnerships are a force multiplier. There is simply no substitute for interoperability among our units operating in the Atlantic,” said Col. Simon Doran, U.S. Senior National Representative to the UK CSG. “It is the bedrock of our ability to reassure our allies and deter potential adversaries while strengthening our readiness and responsiveness.”

    Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 and USS The Sullivans are humbled and proud to continue the special relationship with the United Kingdom through the deployment of Carrier Strike Group 21. Their interoperability with the United Kingdom, The Netherlands and additional international allies will preserve our collective military advantage and reinforce rules-based international order. The United States and United Kingdom’s forward-deployed forces remain ready to respond to crises globally as a combined maritime force – we stand together.”

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 06.03.2021
    Date Posted: 06.04.2021 07:09
    Story ID: 398125
    Location: MEDITERRANEAN SEA

    Web Views: 390
    Downloads: 2

    PUBLIC DOMAIN