US Coast Guard, Navy perform joint training

The US Coast Guard (USCG) and the US Navy’s Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate USS Gary (FFG 51) sailors have conducted training and anti-drug smuggling operations off the California coast.

Sailors and personnel from the USCG’s Law Enforcement Detachment Team (LEDET) 101 and FFG 51 performed joint training evolutions including communications troubleshooting and small boat operations.

Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team (TACLET) San Diego LEDET 101 officer-in-charge, coast guard chief maritime enforcement specialist Chris Sinclair said, "We are currently supporting counter-smuggling operations by providing law enforcement capabilities to Third Fleet Navy platforms in known drug and migrant transit corridors."

During small boat operations, USS Gary sailors manned and lowered a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) alongside the ship while LEDET members onboard the RHIB performed communication checks and evasive manoeuvres.

USS Gary executive officer Lieutenant commander Bob Jones said, "We coordinated beneficial training, and we will continue our proficiency in working with the U.S. Coast Guard and Third Fleet assets."

Joint interagency and international relationships strengthen US 3rd Fleet’s ability to respond to crises and protect the collective maritime interests of the US and its allies and partners.

TACLETS aim to perform a variety of joint missions by enforcing US laws across a full spectrum of maritime response situations to safeguard the public and in support of Coast Guard, National Security and law enforcement operations.