Task Force 70’s Potent Power: USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group Navigates Keen Sword 25 Air and Surface Forces

The Keen Sword exercise marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and U.S. military. This joint-bilateral field training aims to enhance combat readiness and foster operational interoperability.

Central to the exercise is Carrier Task Force 70 (CTF 70), with representation from various naval units. These include the Carrier Air Wing 5, Electronic Attack Squadron 134, and vessels like the USS Lake Erie and USS Preble, all coordinated under Destroyer Squadron 15.

“The presence of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group is vital in Keen Sword 25,” emphasized Rear Adm. Greg Newkirk, the commander of Task Force 70. “This exercise showcases our ability to conduct high-end warfighting alongside our allies and reinforces our strategic presence in the region.”

The USS George Washington, returning to its role as the forward-deployed U.S. aircraft carrier in Japan, departed San Diego on October 8 for operations in the Indo-Pacific. Previously, it had been stationed in Yokosuka from 2008 until 2015.

The carrier will return to Yokosuka later this fall, succeeding the USS Ronald Reagan, which served there from 2015 until recently.

Rear Adm. Newkirk highlighted the exercise’s significance, noting that “Keen Sword 25 provides the George Washington CSG with a robust platform to demonstrate its capabilities across air, surface, and information domains.”

The coordination between the Carrier Strike Group, DESRON 15, and allied vessels is evident in the strategic maneuvers in the Philippine Sea and Yokosuka. The exercise includes bilateral training with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force specialists, further reinforcing tactical proficiency.

Keen Sword, a biennial undertaking, aims to promote Indo-Pacific peace and security. It stands as a testament to the steadfast U.S.-Japan alliance, a critical partnership enduring for over seven decades.