NAVAL STATION ROTA, Spain –
Capt. Alex Mamikonian was relieved by Capt. Kelechi Ndukwe as Commodore, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 60 and Commander, Task Force (CTF) 65 on September 10th, 2025 in a ceremony presided over by Vice Adm. Jeffrey Anderson, Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet.
Commander Pedro Jose Arenas Marin, Commanding Officer, REINA SOFIA (F84), conducted the Bastón de Mando ceremony, a Spanish tradition that signifies the passing of responsibility between the outgoing and incoming Commanders.
Capt. Mamikonian assumed command of DESRON 60 and CTF 65 in April 2024. During his tenure, he led five guided missile destroyers as part of the Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe (FDNF-E) squadron through a combined ten patrols and two certification patrols, completing critical operations and strengthening interoperability with Allies and Partners in the region.
While in command, Capt. Mamikonian coordinated the response for the Twelve-Day War between Israel and Iran, resulting in the successful execution of the Ballistic Missile Defense mission for the first time in the history of FDNF-E.
Additionally, he was instrumental in the successful homeport shift of USS Oscar Austin and implemented the certification patrol model, ensuring continued sustainment of FDNF-E surface forces in theater.
“The European theater requires a force that can operate across the spectrum of conflict. The Sailors serving aboard our warships in DESRON 60 and Task Force 65 have consistently answered that call,” said Capt. Mamikonian. “From combat operations to building allied capacity, every member has made a direct and meaningful contribution. Leading this team, which generates readiness and a true warfighting advantage for the nation and its Allies has been a great honor.”
Capt. Ndukwe’s at-sea experience includes command of USS Halsey and USS Devastator. Most recently, he was the Post Department Head and Post Commander Command Detailing Branch Head at Navy Personnel Command.
“This DESRON has shown that they are ready to answer the call to support any emerging crisis,” Capt. Ndukwe said. “I know that we will continue to execute while advancing our capabilities and relationships with our Allies and Partners in theater.”
Destroyer Squadron 60 is based in Rota, Spain and is comprised of five Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers. This force executes a wide spectrum of naval operations in order to advance security and stability in Europe and Africa.