Today, the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKECSG) and the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (WSP ARG) of the U.S. Navy conducted joint operations in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea (EMED). During their navigation, IKECSG joined WSP ARG and the HMS Duncan of the Royal Navy for combined operations, highlighting their first activity of sailing in formation as a Combined Task Group.
IKECSG consists of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile destroyer USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 and its nine squadrons, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 with Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Mason (DDG 87) and USS Gravely (DDG 107), and the Information Warfare Commander.
On the other hand, the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group includes the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS New York (LPD 21), and the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51).
It’s noteworthy that WSP ARG recently arrived in the Eastern Mediterranean to support U.S. missions aimed at maintaining regional stability and deterring aggression from rebel groups. Following its port call in Souda Bay, Crete, IKECSG joined WSP ARG and HMS Duncan of the Royal Navy for joint operations. In May, the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier of the French Navy and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower of the U.S. Navy both participated in operational activities under NATO and Washington guidelines, respectively.
It’s important to mention that IKECSG units are now returning to their home ports in Norfolk, Virginia, and Mayport, Florida, after a nine-month deployment in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations. They participated in Operations Yukon Lightning and Guardians of Prosperity to support maritime security and stability in the Middle East region following attacks in Israel.
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