In light of the deployment of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) in the international exercise Southern Seas 2024, the Brazilian Navy conducted maneuvers alongside the United States Navy (US Navy) off the coast of Brazil.
The USS George Washington was accompanied on this occasion by the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) and the US Coast Guard cutter James (WMSL 754), units that carried out anti-air and surface exercises with the Brazilian Niteroi-class frigates Independência (F44) and União (F45).
Notably, personnel from the Brazilian Navy were on board the American aircraft carrier to support the integration and execution of the exercise. Along with Carrier Air Wing 7 (CVW-7) and Brazilian Navy aircraft, they performed air power demonstrations and air defense exercises.
In this regard, Rear Admiral Alexis Walker, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10, stated, “Our navies successfully completed a series of air and surface exercises over the past two days, and I am extremely proud of our integration capabilities.” He added, “We will continue to operate with our partners in South America to enhance our ability to work together across multiple domains.”
During this mission, George Washington’s embarked air wing, which has a capacity of up to 90 aircraft, is composed of Strike Fighter Squadron 147 (VFA-147) and VFA-103, Electronic Attack Squadron 140 (VAQ-140 “Patriots”), and Airborne Command and Control Squadron 116 (VAW-116 “Sun Kings”).
Regarding rotary wings, the carrier operates with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 (HSC-5 “Nightdippers”) and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 46 (HSM-46 “Grandmasters”). The Brazilian Navy deployed UH-15/AH-15B “Super Cougar” helicopters, AH-11B “Wild Lynx” helicopters, and AF-1 “Skyhawk” fighter aircraft.
*Image credits: Brazilian Navy – US Navy
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