USS Nimitz Completes Joint Task Force Exercise

USS Nimitz (CVN 68), Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 11 and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 successfully completed Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) Nov. 12.

JTFEX is designed to test a strike group’s ability to operate in hostile and complex environments with other U.S. and coalition forces.

The integrated exercise combines specific warfare areas with the purpose of making preparations for the strike group’s upcoming deployment.

“Nimitz, CSG 11 and CVW 11 displayed enormous resilience and competence while being tested as an integrated force in the Joint Task Force Exercise,” said Commander, CSG 11 Rear Adm. Pete Gumataotao. “I am confident with the integrated training we received we are now fully capable and combat ready to quickly respond to any maritime operation.”

More than 8,000 Sailors worked together to hone their operational skills in preparation for their upcoming deployment. Upon completion of the exercise, U.S. 3rd Fleet Commander, Vice Adm. Gerald Beaman certified the CSG as “major combat operations ready” and ready to deploy. The Nimitz CSG is now postured and capable of supporting any of the Navy’s maritime strategy missions prior to its deployment.

“I’m very proud of Warrior Team 11’s performance during these past two months of integrated and joint training,” said Gumataotao. “We are ready to support our Navy’s mission anywhere, anytime.”

The Nimitz CSG includes Commander, Carrier Strike Group 11, Carrier Air Wing 11 and Commander Destroyer Squadron 23. Ships assigned include: USS Higgins (DDG 76), USS Princeton (CG 59), USS Shoup (DDG 86), USS Stockdale (DDG 106), USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110), USS Preble (DDG 88) and USS Antietam (CG 54).

U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Eastern Pacific from the West Coast of North America to the international date line and is responsible for providing realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy.

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Naval Today Staff,November 15, 2012; Image: US Navy