USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) Sets Sail from Naval Station Norfolk in a Bold New Mission

NORFOLK, Va. – The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) set sail from Naval Station Norfolk on January 20th. It is heading for a defined mission in the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations.

The cruiser is bound for the U.S. Southern Command Area of Responsibility (USSOUTHCOM AOR). Its mission is to strengthen maritime collaborations, execute Theater Security Cooperation (TSC) port visits, and support Joint Interagency Task Force South in curtailing illicit activities along key Caribbean and Central American maritime routes.

Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command, highlighted the significance of this deployment. “The deployment of Philippine Sea underscores the Navy’s proficiency in deploying certified, combat-ready forces for essential missions,” he stated.

The deployment aims to underscore the Navy’s commitment to enhancing regional security and undertaking coordinated efforts to tackle unique challenges within the Fourth Fleet. Adm. Caudle emphasized the importance of fostering global maritime partnerships while supporting a resilient, adaptable force.

This journey marks Philippine Sea’s concluding deployment after a distinguished 35-year service span. Previously embarking on October 14, 2023, as part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, it supported operations in U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet regions.

Capt. Steven Liberty, commanding officer of Philippine Sea, affirmed the readiness of his crew, stating, “Our sailors have undergone rigorous training and are set to face deployment challenges with exceptional professionalism.”

The U.S. 4th Fleet plays a crucial role in cooperative maritime security to sustain access, enhance collaboration, and build lasting regional security partnerships within the USSOUTHCOM AOR.

Covering 31 countries and 16 dependencies, this region spans Latin America south of Mexico, adjacent waters of Central and South America, and the Caribbean. It accounts for one-sixth of the global landmass under regional unified command jurisdiction.

U.S. Fleet Forces Command ensures global fleet readiness through strategic manning, training, and equipping of forces for deployment to various combatant commands worldwide.