USS Princeton Deploys in Support of Counterpiracy and Maritime Presence

From Naval Surface Force, U. S. Pacific Fleet, Public Affairs Office

June 9, 2010 - SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59) will depart San Diego on an independent deployment to the 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility in the North Arabian Gulf June 10.

During deployment, Princeton will conduct operations in support of counterpiracy efforts, engage in oil platform defense, and project maritime power in the Gulf.

"We're looking forward to the upcoming challenges of deployment across the whole spectrum of warfare areas," said Capt. Rich Haidvogel, commanding officer. "The crew has been training hard, and we are ready to go."

Princeton will deploy with a crew of approximately 30 officers and 300 enlisted Sailors. The crew will be augmented by Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 45, Detachment 2, who will provide aerial support with two SH-60B helicopters.

The ship last deployed in 2008 to the Persian Gulf with the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group. Upon return, Princeton underwent a scheduled maintenance availability for the remainder of 2008. In 2009, the ship was certified in all warfare areas through an engaged training cycle, successfully establishing the ship and crew as ready for deployment.

Princeton helps provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the nation's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.