The Norwegian Armed Forces reported that the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier will operate between October and November in local waters, conducting exercises with ships from the Royal Norwegian Navy as well as other NATO naval units. The carrier’s deployment will likely be closely monitored by Moscow, as happens whenever a strike group operates in the North Sea.
According to the Forsvaret, the Truman is sailing in Norwegian waters alongside the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Gettysburg and the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Jason Dunham and USS Stout. “…The presence of the group offers Norwegian defense a unique opportunity to further develop cooperation and work more closely with our most important ally, the United States. Exercises with several branches of the Armed Forces are planned…,” detailed the Norwegian Armed Forces.
On board the Truman is Carrier Air Wing 1, which includes four attack squadrons, an electronic warfare squadron, a command and control squadron, a logistics detachment, and two multi-mission helicopter squadrons. Nearly 70 aircraft are part of the wing, including F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growlers, E-2D Hawkeyes, C-2A Greyhounds, and MH-60R/S Sea Hawks.
Regarding the arrival of the USS Harry S. Truman strike group, Vice Admiral Rune Andersen, head of the Norwegian Armed Forces’ operational headquarters, stated that “…Norway’s and the Norwegian Armed Forces’ ability to receive allies is crucial for the defense of Norway and the Nordic countries. By being present in areas close to Norway and other countries in our region, the U.S. clearly demonstrates that it wants to support its allies and that stability in the northern areas is important to them as well…”
“…Norway’s defense is based on NATO’s collective security and relations with close allies, in addition to national defense capabilities. Close defense cooperation with the U.S. has been important for Norway for over 75 years. This presence is an important signal of the close bilateral relationship and enhances the credibility of collective defense and deterrence…” concluded Vice Admiral Andersen.
It is worth noting that the U.S. Navy carrier’s presence will be closely watched by Russian Armed Forces, as is usually the case. The allied strike group will operate under the surveillance of Moscow’s naval and air assets, and offensive/defensive exercises may possibly be carried out in response while the Harry S. Truman operates in Nordic waters.
Cover image: US Navy – Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mike Shen
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