USS Donald Cook to Enter Black Sea Today

The USS Donald Cook is scheduled to arrive in the Black Sea today, a Pentagon spokesman said yesterday.

U.S. Army Col. Steven Warren explained the Navy vessel’s mission upon arrival to Pentagon reporters.

“The Donald Cook’s mission is to reassure NATO allies and Black Sea partners of America’s commitment to strengthen and improve interoperability while working towards mutual goals in the region,” Warren said.

The colonel noted that while in the Black Sea, the ship will participate in exercises and operations to improve interoperability, readiness and enhance relationships.

The vessel left Norfolk, Va., Jan. 31 as the first of four Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers to be stationed in Rota, Spain, to enhance security in the European region.

[mappress]
Press Release, April 10, 2014; Image: US DoD