US, French navies conduct joint exercise in Philippine Sea

Seventh Fleet of the US Navy has published a statement saying that the US and French navies conducted a joint exercise in the Philippine Sea on August 13.

“The [US Navy] Seventh Fleet regularly takes steps to enhance interoperability with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region, which was the case this week during a bilateral operation with our long-time allies, the French Navy,” said the Seventh Fleet Commander Fred Kacher, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

He said the joint operation “strengthens the Navy's capabilities” and enhances its ability to deter regional conflicts.

The American Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) and the French Aquitana-class frigate FS Bretagne (D655) took part in the military manoeuvres. During the events, the ships performed joint manoeuvring, combined communications and simulated refuelling at sea.