“Two months into deployment, and the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group has experienced an unprecedented amount of operations with our NATO Allies and partners,” said Rear Adm. Sean Bailey, HSTCSG commander. He emphasised the seamless integration of multinational forces, highlighting the strength and versatility of the NATO alliance.
The strike group began its High-North mission in October, integrating with NATO navies such as the Portuguese Navy’s Francisco De Almeida and Norway’s replenishment oiler Maud. These units bolstered operational readiness, including Helicopter Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (HVBSS) operations and Arctic maritime patrols.
Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Jason Dunham and USS Stout detached to conduct maritime operations in the Barents Sea, enhancing domain awareness and deterring potential adversaries. “It is important that U.S. naval forces demonstrate a calibrated presence in the Arctic,” noted Cmdr. Desmond Walker, commanding officer of USS Stout.
HSTCSG units joined the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales for NATO-led Neptune Strike 24.2, demonstrating transatlantic military cooperation. Over the week-long exercise, the strike groups executed complex air defence, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime strike operations under NATO command, reaffirming the alliance’s combat credibility.
Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 squadrons participated in joint tactical missions with NATO air forces, including Swedish Gripens, Danish F-16s, and Finnish Hornets. These operations showcased NATO’s ability to integrate multinational airpower for extended-range capabilities.
Following Neptune Strike, strike group units conducted port visits across Europe. USS Harry S. Truman and Carabiniere visited Oslo, Norway, while USS Gettysburg and USS Stout stopped in Helsinki and Gothenburg, respectively, hosting receptions with local military and civilian leaders.
As operations concluded, USS Harry S. Truman joined Norway’s Roald Amundsen in the Norwegian Sea, advancing Arctic readiness. “Operating in the Arctic requires comprehensive coordination and adaptability,” said Capt. Dave Snowden, commanding officer of Harry S. Truman. He praised the crew’s resilience and combat readiness in challenging conditions.
