DESRON 26 Conducts U.S. Navy, Japan Maritime Self Defense Force PASSEX

Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26 is leading a contingent of U.S. Navy ships, that are participating in a passing exercise (PASSEX) with Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) off the United State’s East Coast, from Virginia to Florida, July 31 – August 2.

PASSEX is designed to provide realistic training environments for U.S. Navy and the JMSDF Training Squadron that closely replicates the operational challenges routinely encountered around the world. DESRON 26 is working in close coordination with the JMSDF Training Squadron which consists of newly commissioned Japanese surface warfare officers.

“PASSEX really gives us an opportunity to not only practice what we might be called upon to do, but we have the chance to establish a professional relationship with our allies making us more capable forces working together at sea,” said Capt. Nelson Castro, deputy commander DESRON 26.

U.S. units participating are Carrier Strike Group 10, DESRON 26, guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94), guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) and guided-missile frigate USS Taylor (FFG 50).

Japanese units participating are Japan Maritime Self Defense Force Training Squadron, destroyer JS Mineyuki (DD 124), training vessel JS Asagiri (TV 3516) and training vessel JS Kashima (TV 3508).

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Source: navy, August 3, 2011;