USA: HSTSG Completes COMPTUEX

Harry S. Truman Strike Group (HSTSG), underway since Jan. 14, completed its composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) and returned to Naval Station Norfolk Feb. 3.

COMPTUEX was a scenario-based pre-deployment exercise assessed by Commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic (CSFTL).

CSFTL ensured HSTSG can carry out a broad scope of missions efficiently and effectively when operating in the 5th fleet and 6th fleet areas of responsibility.

“This was a difficult scenario. We threw a lot of problems at the strike group and its ships to make sure this team performs as a team and to acceptable combat standards,” said Rear Adm. Scott Craig, CSFTL. “I have all the confidence in the world that when HSTSG gets the call to deliver, the strike group can deliver and will do so with precision.”

HSTSG conducted several scenario-based missions including maritime interdiction operations; electronic, air, surface and subsurface warfare; electronic, air, surface and subsurface defense; small boat and low slow flyer detection and deterrence; integrated air and surface warfare; combat flight operations; counter-unmanned air vehicle drills; straits transits; and replenishments-at-sea.

“The crew of Truman is absolutely ready for deployment,” said Command Master Chief (SW/AW/IDW) Raymond D. Kemp, USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). “We have been tried, assessed, inspected and tested. No matter what enemy we are sent to engage, we are ready to engage, and we shall be victorious.”

According to Lt. j.g. Aubrey Page, navigator aboard guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64), Sailors aboard Gettysburg are equally as ready for deployment. During COMPTUEX, Gettysburg Sailors honed skills in ship’s self defense, weapons, integrated air defense, and flight operations.

“It is exciting to work with the [Harry S. Truman] strike group,” said Page. “Together, we bring the best of what navies all around the world offer to provide a maritime presence in a part of the world that needs us.”

Aboard Truman (CVN 75) are its crew, Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 10, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, and 1st Combined Destroyer Squadron (1CDS). In addition to Gettysburg, USS Monterey (CG 61), guided-missile frigate USS Kaufmann (FFG 59), guided-missile destroyers USS Gravely (DDG 107) and USS Barry (DDG 52), Canadian ships HMCS Ville de Quebec (FFH 332) and HMCS Preserver (AOR 510), and German frigate FGS Hamburg (F220) also participated.

Gettysburg and Hamburg will join Truman for deployment.

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Naval Today Staff, February 5, 2013; Image: US Navy