Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge, (LHD 3), flagship of the Kearsarge Amphibious Readiness Group (ARG), and 22nd Naval Expeditionary Unit (MEU), arrived in Helsinki, Finland during a visit scheduled port, August 5, 2022.
The ARG-MEU is operating in the Baltic Sea to strengthen relationships with NATO allies and partners while conducting joint training operations and security-theatrical cooperation. This marks the first time that the ARG-MEU has fully assembled in the Baltic during their current deployment.
“Following a successful mid-deployment cruise repair (MDVR) and ‘crew reset’ phase in Brest, France, Kearsarge is looking forward to continuing operations in the Baltic region, reconfiguring all three. ARG ships and exercises with the Finnish Army,” said Captain Tom Foster, commanding officer of the USS Kearsarge. “This visit further demonstrates our commitment to security and stability in the region and provides an excellent opportunity for our Sailors and Marines to experience the rich culture of Finland.”
– ADVERTISING – READ MORE BELOW –
Kearsarge and the 22nd MEU have joined hands to conduct bilateral training events with the Finnish military, and Sailors and Marines will be able to explore the city of Helsinki through tours and participation Have a Mental, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) plan.
Kearsarge ARG and MEU 22 are under the command and control of TF 61/2. The ARG includes the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3); San Antonio-class amphibious assault ship USS Arlington (LPD 24); and the Whidbey Island-class amphibious assault ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44).
While Kearsarge docks in Helsinki, Arlington will make a port call to Stockholm, Sweden, while Gunston Hall visits Tallinn, Estonia. These port visits demonstrate the United States’ commitment to working with key NATO allies and partners to maintain security and stability in the Baltic Sea region.
Commands starting with Kearsarge ARG include SIX Amphibious Squadron, MEU 22, 2nd Fleet Surgical Squadron, 4th Fleet Surgical Squadron, 22 Tactical Air Control Squadron, Marine Helicopter Squadron 22, 28 Sea Helicopter Squadron, 2nd Assault Unit, 4th Assault Unit, 2nd Naval Beach Group, and 2nd Beach Captain’s Unit.
Amphibious readiness groups and larger amphibious task forces provide military commanders with a wide range of flexibility including maritime security operations, expeditionary power projection, and strike operations. forward naval presence, crisis response, sea control, deterrence, counterterrorism, information operations, security cooperation and counter-proliferation, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief disaster.
