U.S. 7th Fleet Displays its Regional Commitment at LIMA '15

By Lt. Frederick Martin, USS Shiloh Public Affairs

LANGKAWI, Malaysia (NNS) -- Sailors, aircraft and a ship from U.S. 7th Fleet arrived at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA), March 15-16.

Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Vice Adm. Robert Thomas, two F/A-18F Super Hornets from the "Diamondbacks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft from Patrol Squadron (VP) 45 and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) with an embarked MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter from Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) squadron 51, Det. 4, comprise the U.S. Navy delegation at LIMA 15.

Through participation in air shows and other regional events, the United States Navy demonstrates its commitment to maritime security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, promotes standardization and interoperability of equipment, and displays capabilities critical to the success of current and future naval operations.

"LIMA provides an ideal forum to showcase U.S. assets and form personal relationships that ultimately contribute to increased interoperability with other countries' services," said Thomas. "The dialogue, seminars and information exchanges that occur at LIMA are essential to building mutual understanding and future cooperation."

The airshow provides an opportunity for Navy Sailors to interact with their counterparts from partner nations, as well as industry representatives.

"Our Sailors are looking forward to the chance to meet and interact with fellow professional mariners ashore," said Capt. Kurush Morris, Shiloh's commanding officer. "We encounter vessels from around the world at sea, but chances like LIMA, to meet them face-to-face are a less frequent, but an important part of building strong relationships and understanding."

U.S. Navy participation in LIMA and similar events provide an opportunity to advance and strengthen alliances and partnerships, which allow the region to contend with common challenges.

"We are proud of our long-standing history and commitment to our allied and partner militaries throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region," said Thomas. "Through decades of exchange, training and collaboration we have helped each other build capabilities that collectively enhance the security and stability of the region.