Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Howard (DDG 83) arrived in Wellington, New Zealand, Nov. 26 for a routine port go to. This port go to is a sign of the depth of the connection between New Zealand and the U.S. The U.S. Navy together with its community of alliances and companions performs a key function within the safety of world commerce routes and freedom of navigation, and sustaining world entry for our Navy is central to that function. USS Howard is in New Zealand for the standard port go to and to seek the advice of on cooperative workout routines. Skilled engagement with associates, companions, and allies within the area permits the chance to construct upon the prevailing, robust relationships and proceed our shared studying.
USS Howard will participate in a spread of actions with the New Zealand Defence power, together with coaching and interoperability workout routines and official engagements. Having taken measures to mitigate and function in a COVID-19 surroundings, Sailors shall be granted liberty in Wellington. The U.S. Navy is devoted to the well being of its power and households. Mitigation for the persevering with COVID-19 pandemic in accomplice nations has been a key element of port go to planning. The U.S. Navy continues to take applicable power well being safety measures, serving to to mitigate the unfold of COVID whereas sustaining the dedication and functionality to coach and function within the COVID surroundings.
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“My crew is extraordinarily excited to go to New Zealand and proud to be known as upon to symbolize the U.S. Navy as we construct our relationship and deepen the friendship with the individuals and leaders right here,” stated Cmdr. Travis Montplaisir, Howard’s Commanding Officer. “Because the Royal New Zealand Navy celebrates their eightieth anniversary this yr, we’re happy to assist them mark the event and stay up for a profitable go to that ensures continued alternatives for cooperation.”
This marks the primary go to of a U.S. warship to the nation since USS Sampson (DDG 102) visited in 2016 following the Kaikoura earthquake. The port go to permits for management from USS Howard and New Zealand forces to satisfy and focus on the safety and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific that drives world financial growth, and continues our shared curiosity to protect rules-based worldwide order. This cooperation permits the U.S. Navy and New Zealand to proceed its dedication to their relationship and peace, safety and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific area. U.S. seventh Fleet conducts forward-deployed naval operations in help of U.S. nationwide pursuits within the Indo-Pacific space of accountability. Because the U.S. Navy’s largest numbered fleet, seventh Fleet interacts with 35 different maritime nations to construct partnerships that foster maritime safety, promote stability, and stop battle.
