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US Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, USS George Washington, is reportedly being rerouted to the Middle East after conducting a transit of the South China Sea with Australian Defence Force Anzac class frigate HMAS Perth.
The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington is reportedly on the move to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln, after an extensive period of nearly nine months at sea.
The shift is expected to leave the western Pacific without a US aircraft carrier.
“Australian Defence Force Anzac class frigate HMAS Perth supported the United States Navy USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group during its transit in the South China Sea in accordance with international law,” according to a statement from Defence.
“The ADF and the US routinely train and operate together, increasing interoperability between our forces and strengthening our collective capabilities.
“HMAS Perth sailed from Australia in July as part of the ADF’s Regional Presence Deployment program and is continuing to its next activity with our allies and partners.
“These deployments demonstrate Australia’s commitment to the international rules-based order, enhancing cooperation and relationships with partners and contributing to the collective security of the Indo-Pacific region.”
Earlier this month, the USS George Washington also conducted a scheduled port visit to Da Nang reinforcing the enduring partnership between the US and Vietnam.
Upon departure, the George Washington Carrier Strike Group and forces from the Vietnamese People’s Navy conducted a bilateral search-and-rescue exercise at sea.
“Whether we are navigating the complexities of an at-sea rescue exercise or playing a spirited game of soccer on a local field, the goal is the same: building human connections,” said Capt. Nicholas DeLeo, commanding officer of George Washington.
“The hospitality shown to our Sailors by the people of Da Nang was world-class. Through these cultural exchanges and cooperative training events, we strengthen the bonds that help maintain peace and stability throughout the region.”
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