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The US Navy amphibious assault ship USS America has arrived in Sydney during a routine stop for troops from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.
The flagship of the America Strike Group brings more than 2,500 sailors and marines to Sydney under a US scheduled port visit from 14 June.
The ship brings significant capabilities to the region, including a detachment of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, equipped with the advanced F-35B Lightning II aircraft.
“Sydney’s warm welcome has been exceptional,” according to USS America Commanding Officer Captain Ethan Rule.
“This port visit provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen the bonds between our nations, experience Australia’s unique culture, and reinforce our shared values.”
Royal Australian Navy Liaison Officer, LCDR Craig Hamilton is currently serving aboard USS America with the mission of fostering seamless cooperation and interoperability between the two navies.
He will host Australian military and government officials for a tour of the ship, highlighting its capabilities and the close partnership between the US and Australia.
“The US-Australia alliance is a cornerstone of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific,” said Erika Olson, chargé d’affaires, US mission to Australia.
“The arrival of America, USS San Diego and USS Rushmore marks the first time that the three-ship America Strike Group are together in Sydney.
“We are excited to have sailors and marines here, and warmly welcome them to Sydney.”
The US 7th Fleet is the US Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
The USS America is joined by amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore and embarked elements from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.
“I want to thank the city of Sydney for their hospitality and the warm welcome of the America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG),” said Capt. John Baggett, commodore of Amphibious Squadron 11, which oversees the America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG).
“Our port visit allows us to deepen friendships with our Australian allies, which is instrumental to our two nations’ forces operating together to maintain regional peace and stability.”
This marks the first time America, San Diego, and Rushmore are moored in Sydney at the same time.
America, San Diego, and Rushmore are part of the America Strike group, which is capable of responding to a range of military operations, including combat operations and humanitarian assistance and disaster response.
