The USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS Bunker Hill recently arrived in Vietnam, say the US Navy.
“This visit follows on the historic 2018 visit of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), the first U.S. aircraft carrier to visit Vietnam in more than 40 years,” said US Ambassador to Vietnam Daniel Kritenbrink.
“It also comes at an important time in our bilateral relationship. Just 25 years after the normalisation of our diplomatic ties, our relationship is the strongest it has ever been.”
“This visit demonstrates the strength of our bilateral relations and highlights our continued cooperation with partner countries and our strong support for the region, including institutions such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), of which Vietnam is this year’s chair,” said Stu Baker, Commander Carrier Strike Group 9, in a news release.
“It also serves as evidence of the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific where strong, independent nations respect one another’s sovereignty, and uphold the rule of law.”
The US Navy also say that its sailors will participate in cultural and professional exchanges, community service projects, sports competitions, and receptions during the port visit.
“This visit will not only serve to strengthen our bilateral defense relationship, but also help further advance our cultural and professional ties,” said Capt. Brett Crozier, Theodore Roosevelt’s commanding officer.
Theodore Roosevelt is America’s fourth Nimitz-class aircraft carrier with a crew of 5,000 Sailors who support and conduct air operations at sea.
A very busy looking flight deck with some real punch.
Why is it so busy though? Good luck launching many craft when its that blocked up
I can only suggest that the US Navy felt about as welcome as a fart in a spacesuit!