Sea Breeze 2015 Set to Begin

Maritime forces from 11 maritime nations will begin the U.S.-Ukraine co-hosted multinational maritime exercise Sea Breeze 2015 in Odessa, Ukraine, and the Black Sea, Aug. 31.

Sea Breeze, now in its 14th iteration, is an annual exercise held in the Black Sea which seeks to enhance interoperability and strengthen regional security.

Vice Adm. James Foggo III, commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, said:

This exercise represents an important opportunity to work with our partners and conduct meaningful training in the land, air, and maritime domains. I am confident that this exercise will also lead to valuable personal exchanges between our Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen and Marines, leading to stronger bonds and unity in this region.

Participating nations include Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Italy, Moldova, Romania, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The at-sea phase will focus on maritime interdiction operations as a primary means to enhance maritime security. Specific skill sets tested in the at-sea phase will include maritime interdiction operations, anti-submarine warfare, and self-defense against small boat attacks. Other warfare areas to be tested include air defense, damage control, search and rescue, and other tactical maneuvers.

U.S. participation in Sea Breeze 2015 includes approximately 400 Sailors, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) and a P-3C Orion from Patrol Squadron (VP) 9.

Image: US Navy