The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) has arrived in Rostock, Germany, ahead of its participation in the German-led multinational exercise Northern Coast 2025, the UK Defence Journal understands.
According to the U.S. Navy, the port visit is intended to strengthen ties with NATO allies and enhance regional security cooperation. “Bulkeley is incredibly eager to participate in Northern Coast 2025 with our NATO allies. It’s a unique opportunity to strengthen our maritime relationships with our Baltic allies while demonstrating U.S. resolve,” said Cmdr. Mike Schelcher, the ship’s commanding officer. “Our interoperability with NATO allies strengthens the region, ensuring that vital sea lanes remain open and unthreatened by deterring any adversary who would disrupt the region.”
Northern Coast 2025, also referred to as NoCo25, will involve around 14 nations, up to 40 ships, and approximately 2,700 personnel, according to U.S. Sixth Fleet. First launched in 2007, the exercise is part of Germany’s Quadriga 2025 series, which incorporates land, sea, and air operations designed to replicate realistic threat scenarios.
While in Rostock, USS Bulkeley’s crew is scheduled to engage with local officials, take part in cultural exchanges, and host guided ship tours. “The interoperability planning and training we do alongside the Baltic navies is invaluable,” said Cmdr. Anthony LaVopa, the ship’s executive officer. “We learn from them, they learn from us, and in the end, we become a more cohesive team. It’s a real-world demonstration that we are stronger together.”
USS Bulkeley is currently deployed to the European theatre under U.S. Sixth Fleet, which is headquartered in Naples, Italy. The destroyer operates with embarked Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 79, the “Griffins.” Commissioned in 2001, the ship is named after Vice Admiral John D. Bulkeley, a World War II Medal of Honor recipient.
U.S. Sixth Fleet stated that its operations with allies are aimed at advancing security and stability across Europe and Africa.
