BLACK SEA –
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) departed Varna, Bulgaria on April 18, 2019 after completing a scheduled port visit.
Ross’ visit to Varna fostered enduring relationships and emphasized the U.S. Navy’s shared commitment to promoting security and stability within the region.
While in port, the ship was in Varna, numerous Bulgarian media representatives joined Cmdr. Dave Coles, commanding officer of USS Ross, in Ross’ Wardroom for a scheduled press conference and hosted Admiral Mitko Petev, Chief of Bulgarian Navy, and other Bulgarian naval leaders for a luncheon to discuss enhancing naval interoperability.
After departing Varna, Ross conducted a bilateral maritime exercise with Bulgarian Navy Pauk-class corvette BGS Bodri (14) and numerous Bulgarian patrol craft. The exercise involved fast attack craft exercises as well as tactical maneuvering.
“This visit to Bulgaria was a great success,” said Coles. “Our crew learned a lot during our exercises with the Bulgarians, they were great training partners, and we enjoyed exploring the beautiful city of Varna. I know Ross looks forward to our next visit.”
Ross entered the Black Sea on April 14, 2019 to strengthen interoperability with NATO allies and partners and demonstrate our commitment to security in the Black Sea region.
Ross is the fourth U.S. naval vessel to conduct operations in the Black Sea in 2019.
The U.S. Navy routinely operates in the Black Sea consistent with international law, as well as with the Montreux Convention.
U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.