USS George Washington Hosts Key Military Leaders for AnnualEx

The U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) hosted key regional military leaders during George Washington Carrier Strike Group’s participation in Annual Exercise (AnnualEx) 13, Nov 27-28.
 
Vice Adm. Robert Thomas, commander, U.S. Seventh Fleet, and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Vice Adm. Yasuhi Matsushita, commander in chief, Japan Self-Defense Fleet, visited the ship to discuss AnnualEx 13 and to foster relations between two key regional allies.

“It’s pleasure to have you aboard,” said Capt. Greg Fenton, George Washington’s commanding officer, as he welcomed them onto the ship. “This is a wonderful opportunity for you to debrief on A

The SM-6 tactical missile has reached initial operation capability, the US Navy announced…

The SM-6 tactical missile has reached initial operation capability, the US Navy announced on Wednesday, with SM-6s successfully loaded onboard USS Kidd (DDG 100) in San Diego, Calif.

 
The SM-6 is designed to provide naval vessels with extended range protection against cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles and fixed and rotary wing aircraft.

 “We’re very pleased to achieve [initial operational capability] on schedule,” said Capt. Mike Ladner, the major program manager of Surface Ship Weapons, whose portfolio includes SM-6. “The SM-6, with its ability to extend the battle space, truly improves shipboard air defense capability. I’m very proud of the entire Standard Missile team on this historic achieve