Anderson relieves Commander of the U.S. Sixth Fleet

Vice Adm. Jeffrey Anderson has officially assumed command of the U.S. 6th Fleet and the Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO), following a change of command ceremony held aboard USS Mount Whitney in Naples, Italy.

Anderson succeeds Vice Adm. Thomas E. Ishee, who led the fleet through a series of critical maritime operations and partnerships across Europe and Africa.

The ceremony, presided over by Adm. Stuart Munsch, Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, highlighted Ishee’s achievements during his tenure. Adm. Munsch praised Ishee’s leadership, stating, “You led thousands of Sailors from 15 different countries, hundreds of ships, submarines and aircraft effectively, and advanced our warfighting advantage at every opportunity.”

Under Ishee’s command, the U.S. 6th Fleet strengthened alliances, improved readiness, and played a key role in humanitarian missions, such as assisting Turkish earthquake victims in 2023.

One of Ishee’s significant accomplishments was the establishment of Joint Task Force 406 (JTF 406), a maritime crisis response command within U.S. European Command (EUCOM). The task force was created to maintain mission readiness, build relationships with allies, and deter threats in the region.

Reflecting on his time as Commander, Ishee said, “The U.S. 6th Fleet proudly stands as an independent and adept force, capable of projecting power across the maritime domain.”

Vice Adm. Anderson, who previously served as Director of Operations for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, outlined his vision for the fleet, acknowledging the challenges ahead. “All eyes are on U.S. Sixth Fleet, and the challenges facing the region will test us on a daily basis,” Anderson said.