USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) arrived in Taranto, Italy for a scheduled port visit, September 30, 2022.
Forrest Sherman recently participated in Exercise Dynamic Mariner-Mavi Balina 2022 (DYMR/MB22), part of the certification process for the NATO Response Force 2023 (NRF23). Throughout the exercise, Forrest Sherman conducted unit-level and multi-ship training exercises including anti-submarine warfare, electronic warfare and anti-air warfare tactics. A photo exercise, showcasing 30 ships from 12 NATO nations was also accomplished, representing the capable and dynamic assets that our allies bring to the fight.
“Exercise Dynamic Mariner-Mavi Balina 2022 provided an opportunity for integrated training across several warfare areas, challenging the crew to utilize sensors, apply pre-planned responses and tactically communicate with our NATO Allies,” said Cmdr. Lawrence Heyworth IV, commanding officer of Forrest Sherman. “As one exercise concludes, we begin preparations for Mare Aperto 22, an exercise hosted by the Italian Navy aimed at strengthening and enhancing combat readiness while conducting maritime operations.”
The aim of Mare Aperto 22 is to enhance interoperability and improve tactical maritime operations, with an emphasis on amphibious operations, among Allied participants. The exercise will take place in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ionian Sea, Sardinian Sea, Strait of Sicily and Taranto Gulf from 3-27 October, 2022.
“As my staff and I enter into the fourth month of leading Standing NATO Maritime Group Two/TG 441.02, we continue to fine tune our skills, strengthen relationships, and challenge our war fighting capabilities alongside our NATO Allies and Partners,” said Rear Adm. Scott Sciretta, Commander, Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG2). “Exercises such as Mare Aperto 22 will continue to push boundaries, test communications and provide an opportunity to showcase NATO’s vast capabilities on the high seas.”
In addition to the final preparations for the exercise, Sailors will have the opportunity to shop around the city of Taranto, enjoy local cuisine and get some well-deserved rest.
USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) is the flagship for Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG2), a multinational integrated task group that projects a constant and visible reminder of the Alliance’s solidarity and cohesion afloat and provides the Alliance with a continuous maritime capability to perform a wide range of tasks, including exercises and real-world operations in periods of crisis and conflict.