BALTIC SEA – The multinational training exercise FRUKUS 2012 completed the at-sea phase of training after conducting ship boarding and damage control training exercises, June 29.

During the training, the guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) sent boarding and damage control teams to a Russian tugboat and Russian naval vessel Yaroslav Mudriy (727).

“In addition to being able to ensure that our international waters are safe and secure, it is necessary for us to be able help each other in the event of an emergency,” said Capt. Kevin Hill, commanding officer of Normandy. “If one of our partner ships has been taken over or if the ship catches on fire or floods, then we need to work together to ensure that our ships are safe and secure.”

Keeping the ships safe and working as one cohesive unit will help the nations involved with future operations to be more efficient when the real missions take place.

“It’s good to be able to show our partners that we can be there to help them if they ever need help,” said Electronics Technician 1st Class Alan Staas, boarding team member. “By demonstrating that we have the capabilities to board their vessel in a quick and efficient manner, whether it’s for security or providing casualty assistance, it strengthens that bond that we strive to maintain as partners.”

FRUKUS 2012 continued in St. Petersburg, Russia, after completion of the at-sea training.

FRUKUS is an annual exercise aimed at improving maritime security through an open dialogue and increased training between the navies of France, Russia, United Kingdom and United States.

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