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| Foto:ship USS Tripoli |
VISTORBELITUNG.COM,DA NANG, Vietnam – In a vivid demonstration of growing defense cooperation and bilateral ties, the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), the guided-missile cruiser USS Robert Smalls (CG 62), and elements of the Okinawa-based 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived in Da Nang today for a scheduled port visit.
The arrival marks a significant moment in U.S.-Vietnam relations, continuing a series of high-level engagements that underscore a shared commitment to a secure and stable Indo-Pacific region. The port call, which includes professional exchanges and community activities, is poised to enhance mutual understanding and interoperability between the two nations' militaries.
The USS Tripoli, an America-class amphibious assault ship, serves as a crucial platform for the U.S. Navy's power projection and humanitarian assistance capabilities. It carries a formidable complement of aircraft, including the F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter, and serves as the flagship for the embarked 31st MEU. The USS Robert Smalls, a Ticonderoga-class cruiser, provides advanced air defense and surface warfare capabilities.
"For the crew of Tripoli and the Marines of the 31st MEU, this visit is an invaluable opportunity to experience Vietnam's rich culture and to build upon the professional relationship between our militaries," said Captain John Kiefaber, commanding officer of USS Tripoli. "These interactions are foundational to promoting peace and stability at sea."
The visit's agenda is expected to include a series of carefully planned events:
· Professional Military Exchanges: Sailors and Marines will engage with their counterparts from the Vietnam People's Navy, sharing expertise in areas such as naval aviation, medical readiness, and disaster response.
· Sporting and Cultural Events: Friendly competitions, like soccer and basketball games, are planned to foster camaraderie.
· Community Outreach: U.S. service members are scheduled to participate in community service projects, reflecting a shared spirit of goodwill and cooperation with the people of Da Nang.
This port call follows a consistent pattern of deepening security ties. It comes on the heels of the historic upgrade of U.S.-Vietnam relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023 and recent visits by U.S. aircraft carriers to Da Nang. The engagement underscores the U.S. commitment to a "free and open Indo-Pacific" and Vietnam's "Four Nos" defense policy, which emphasizes independence and diversification in international relations.
"Every handshake, every professional conversation, and every shared experience during this visit strengthens the fabric of our partnership," said a spokesperson for the 31st MEU. "We are not just allies; we are partners in ensuring maritime security and responding to humanitarian challenges in this vital region."
The sight of U.S. Navy vessels in Da Nang harbor, a strategic deep-water port in central Vietnam, is a powerful symbol of the transformed relationship between the two former adversaries. From conflict to comprehensive partnership, the engagement highlights a pragmatic and forward-looking bond focused on shared regional interests.
The ships are scheduled to remain in port for several days before resuming their regular operations in the South China Sea. The visit sends a clear message of partnership and peaceful presence, reinforcing that cooperation, not confrontation, is the chosen path for both nations in the dynamic waters of Southeast Asia.