BATUMI, Georgia — The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) arrived in Batumi, Georgia, April 21, 2019, for a scheduled port visit as part of our continued Black Sea presence and support to regional partners.
Since arriving in the Black Sea on April 14, 2019, the crew has completed bilateral naval exercises with the Bulgarian Navy.
While in port, the ship will welcome various media personnel for scheduled press events. Additionally, Ross will offer tours to key groups including local government officials, U.S. Embassy personnel, and students of the Georgian Maritime Academy and National Defense Academy.
“Team Ross is very excited about this visit to Georgia” said Cmdr. Dave Coles, commanding officer of Ross, “The Georgians have proven themselves capable training partners during regional Black Sea exercises such as Sea Breeze and Breeze and we look forward to conducting valuable training shortly after we enjoy visiting Batumi.”
Upon Ross’ departure from Batumi, the crew will continue bilateral exercises with the Georgian Coast Guard. These operations enhance regional maritime stability, combined readiness and naval capability with our NATO allies and Black Sea partners.
Ross is the fourth U.S. naval vessel to conduct operations in the Black Sea to strengthen interoperability with NATO allies and partners and demonstrate the collective resolve to Black Sea security.
The U.S. Navy routinely operates in the Black Sea consistent with the Montreux Convention and international law.
U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.