Home Europe Spain-based US destroyers start European patrols

Spain-based US destroyers start European patrols

USS Porter
USS Porter (DDG 78) departs Naval Station Rota, Spain for a regularly scheduled deployment, March 23, 2020. Photo: US Navy

Two US Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers forward deployed to Spain got underway from Rota on March 22 and 23 to start regularly scheduled patrols in the European theater.

After taking precautions to ensure the health and safety of their crews, USS Porter (DDG 78) and USS Donald Cook (DDG 75), departed on time from their forward deployed berths in Rota.

Once the weapons onload was completed, Porter deployed on her 8th patrol from Rota; Donald Cook began her 10th patrol. While deployed to the waters around Europe and Africa, the ships will ensure freedom of navigation and serve as part of Europe’s ballistic missile defense network.

“We continue to operate our ships, planes, and submarines throughout the region, being mindful to take appropriate action to protect our people and others,” said Vice Adm. Lisa Franchetti, commander, US 6th Fleet.

Porter and Donald Cook comprise half of the Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe destroyers. USS Carney (DDG 64) and USS Ross (DDG 71) comprise the remainder of CTF 65/ DESRON 60.

Carney is currently circumnavigating Africa and recently participated in a historic port visit to Cape Town, South Africa. The ship will soon be replaced by USS Roosevelt, a more capable Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, which is currently en route to Spain.