MEDITERRANEAN SEA –
The East Coast Surface Action Group (SAG) shifted command and control (C2) from U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F) to U.S. 6th Fleet (C6F), Sept. 27, 2019.
The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) join destroyers USS Lassen (DDG 82) and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98), both of whom shifted C2 on Sept. 25. The SAG also includes embarked helicopter detachments from Helicopter Maritime Squadron (HSM) 72, from Naval Air Station Jacksonville.
“C6F is optimally situated to maintain constant situational awareness and rapidly employ forces throughout the region,” said Vice Adm. Lisa Franchetti, commander, U.S. 6th Fleet. “The Euro-Atlantic is an increasingly dynamic and challenging operating area, which requires forces ready to conduct the full spectrum of maritime operations and theater security cooperation missions. The seamless transfer of the SAG underscores the inherent flexibility maritime forces bring to the table. We are thrilled to add this extremely capable team to the Fleet!”
The four ships assigned to the East Coast SAG have integrated into C6F’s force, capable of deterrence and defending our allies and partners through anti-submarine warfare, integrated air and missile defense, and maritime security operations.
"The SAG is comprised of ships capable of executing the mission and tasking of 6th Fleet," said Capt. Christopher Stone, Normandy's Commanding Officer and commander of the four ship task force. "Our smooth transition from 2nd Fleet to 6th Fleet highlights the professionalism of our crews and staff and the ability of our Navy to operate throughout the global maritime domain."
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.