The guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) conducted exercises with the Albanian navy in Porto Palermo, Albania, April 28.
The exercise is part of a continuing effort between the U.S. and Albania to improve Albanian maritime surveillance capabilities.
“The purpose of our exercise is to provide the Albanian authorities a chance to exercise their coastal surveillance and response capabilities,” said Capt. Thomas Kiss, the Monterey’s commanding officer.
The four-hour exercise involved responses to suspicious activity and simulated distress calls by the Albanian Coast Guard.
“All maritime countries must be able to secure their coastlines and respond to vessels in distress within their territorial waters,” said Kiss. “Sometimes that process involves working with other countries, and anytime we get to practice, it is valuable for both participating nations.”
Monterey, homeported in Norfolk, Va., is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, April 30, 2013