Triumphant DESRON 15 SCC Wraps Up Deployments with USS Ronald Reagan and USS George Washington

The completion of recent patrols has led DESRON 15 to reaffirm its operational proficiency, according to Capt. Dave Huljack, the deputy commodore and sea combat commander for DESRON 15. He expressed enthusiasm about reintegrating with the ashore team and realigning with theater surface warfare responsibilities.

DESRON 15 is tasked with two distinct missions. It serves as the Theater Surface Warfare Commander (TSUWC) for U.S. 7th Fleet from shore and embarks on deployed aircraft carriers as the Sea Combat Commander (SCC). During the patrols for two carriers, the squadron managed both maritime strike operations and the anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare endeavors of forward-deployed vessels within Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5.

Coordinating closely with Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, the SCC team executed a series of exercises—Valiant Shield, Freedom Edge, and Keen Sword—while operating alongside Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Canada. These efforts were part of routine security and stability operations.

Capt. Justin Harts, Commander of DESRON 15, highlighted the value of leading a team capable of operating on two fronts. He emphasized the seamless integration of the CSG team, which is integral to providing continuity during operations.

Operational control of Carrier Strike Group 5 is maintained by CTF 70 from the USS George Washington (CVN 73), the only forward-deployed aircraft carrier from the United States.

DESRON 15 holds the distinction of being the Navy’s largest forward-deployed destroyer squadron, serving as the principal surface force for the U.S. 7th Fleet. Its deployment within the 7th Fleet area of operations underscores its role in supporting security and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region.