Carl Vinson CSG 1 Prepares for Deployment

Carrier Strike Group 1 (CSG 1) successfully completed Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) off the coast of Southern California June 9, marking the final step in the strike group’s preparation for its upcoming deployment.

“CSG 1 completed their integrated and advanced training during a single underway period,” said Capt. Patrick Keyes, commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, assistant chief of staff for plans, policy, training and readiness. “Carl Vinson Strike Group’s fleet readiness training plan included incorporation of a pilot program that leverages a single underway period to seamlessly transition between COMPTUEX [composite training unit exercise] and JTFEX. CSG 1 is fully certified to deploy and conduct operations across all mission areas.”

The exercise tested CSG 1’s ability to perform strike warfare, anti-submarine warfare and anti-air warfare. Elements of CSG 1 consist of Carrier Air Wing 17 (CVW 17), Destroyer Squadron 1 (DESRON 1) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Mobile Unit 3.

Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, assisted by CSG 15, led and evaluated the strike group’s performance.

“JTFEX is our final certification as a battle group,” said Capt. Matt Leahey, commander, Carrier Air Wing 17. “It’s a strategic-level exercise where everyone from the carrier strike group staff, air wing staff, to individual squadrons are tested in their ability to integrate in a joint exercise.”

Upon return to its homeport of San Diego, CSG 1 Sailors will take an opportunity to spend time with their families before the strike group’s deployment late this summer.

JTFEX featured nearly 40 participating units. The Carl Vinson Strike Group comprises Carrier Strike Group 1, USS Carl Vinson, CVW 17, DESRON 1, EOD Unit 3, USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), USS Gridley (DDG 101), USS Sterett (DDG 104), and USS Dewey (DDG 105).

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Press Release, June 16, 2014; Image: US Navy