By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Bill Dodge, USS
Stout (DDG 55) Public Affairs
ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Ships assigned to Destroyer Squadron
(DESRON) 26 joined the People's Republic of China's People's Liberation
Army-Navy [PLA(N)] Nov. 7 to conduct a group sail and passing exercise (PASSEX)
off the coast of Florida.
This is the first PLA(N) ship visit to Florida. The three
ships; Jiangkai II-class frigate Yiyang (FFG 548), the Luyang II-class
destroyer Jinan (DDG 152); and the Fuchi-class oiler Qindaohu (AOR 8860), are
on an around-the-world deployment most recently completing port calls in
Europe.
Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Stout (DDG
55) and USS Mason (DDG 87) with the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser
USS Monterey (CG 61) practiced maneuvering in formation alongside the three
PLA(N) ships.
During the exercise, officers from both nations participated
in an exchange program between ships to help build trust and foster shared
understanding.
"The purpose of this exercise was to foster
international maritime cooperation between our Navies," said Lt. j.g. Lisa
Lacross, assistant operations officer of Stout and officer of the deck for the
exercise. "The PASSEX was executed well by all parties involved and
allowed us to demonstrate a variety of seamanship skills."
This PASSEX helps develop understanding between the two
naval forces and benefits both countries' readiness for future operations.
"What a unique opportunity to conduct a PASSEX with the
Chinese Navy as part of our own routine training off the coast of Florida,
"said Capt. Brian Fort, DESRON 26 Commodore. "The Sailors aboard
Mason, Monterey and Stout will be able to tell their family and friends that
they did something that was a first. I also hope it's not a last, and that we
continue these opportunities to work together as professional mariners,
respecting each other in mil-to-mil exchanges at sea."
Prior to setting their departing courses, all ships hoisted
flags to signal, "Thank you very much for your cooperation. I wish you a
pleasant voyage."
DESRON 26 is on a routine group sail along the east coast of
the United States, preparing for an upcoming deployment in 2016.
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