Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and guided missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) arrived in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) Oct. 17.
Abraham Lincoln, with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, brings more than 60 additional aircraft to the theater in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates approved the presence of a second carrier in the 5th Fleet AOR to provide surge support for coalition forces in Afghanistan, and to support existing maritime security operations.
A second carrier also provides support for the drawdown of forces in Iraq.
The U.S. Navy continues to enhance capabilities and cooperation with regional partners in the 5th Fleet AOR through a common regional security architecture strengthened by participating in ongoing security cooperation activities.
Article by USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs