Abraham Lincoln, Kearsarge conduct joint training

The US Navy's Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (ABECSG) and the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (KSGARG), with the embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), recently conducted joint operations in the US 5th Fleet area of operations.

The joint operations took place on 17-18 May. ABECSG and KSGARG conducted numerous joint training evolutions designed to improve operational tactics in several warfare areas. Exercises included air-to-air training, steaming in formation and manoeuvring, and establishing joint communications to rapidly enable a command and control environment.

Super Hornets embarked on the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln conducted a dissimilar air combat training exercise with AV-8B Harriers embarked on the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge. With the Super Hornets simulating opposing forces, the Harriers were allowed a chance to train with a capable and stealthy adversary.

Super Hornets, Harriers and attack helicopters from Kearsarge conducted a joint close air support (CAS) exercise. The CAS provided a training opportunity as it joint multiple types of tactical aircraft that do not typically operate together.

During the training, the Maritime Raid Force of the 22nd MEU conducted visit, board, search and seizure training, as well as a fast-roping exercise with helicopters and the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Bainbridge.

CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters embarked on Kearsarge completed deck landing qualifications on Abraham Lincoln and Bainbridge. MV-22 Ospreys also had an opportunity to land on the flight deck of Abraham Lincoln.

USS Kearsarge is the flagship for the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 22nd MEU, is deployed to the US 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.