By Naval Forces of the US Southern Command.
August 13, 2020
The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Kidd (DDG 100) of the US Navy joined the Maritime Patrol Vessel (PM-13) of El Salvador on July 29, to conduct an approval exercise (PASSEX) .
The PASSEX are unit exercises that require the development of cooperation, communication and interoperability capacities between two or more navies, where advanced navigation tactics and maneuvers are put to the test. They offer the opportunity to hone crews’ knowledge and demonstrate shared tactics.
“This exercise was a unique opportunity for the USS Kidd to train alongside the El Salvador Naval Force,” said US Navy Frigate Captain Nathan S. Wemett, commander of USS Kidd. “Working together enhances our mutual ability to cooperate, as well as giving us a unique opportunity to reinforce the valuable combat skills that our partners show us.”
Sailors aboard the participating vessels also had the opportunity to improve their skills with their Salvadoran counterparts, who were sailing alongside them. Both ships performed division tactics (DIVTACS), a series of tactical movements on board, in addition to practicing their communication skills.
“Communication was essential throughout the year, as is the case when operations are carried out in this proximity. All communications with the El Salvador Naval Force were conducted in an absolutely professional manner, and it was a great learning experience for everyone, ”said US Navy Frigate Lieutenant Walker Hobson, deck officer on board. of the USS Kidd during exercise PASSEX.
USS Kidd is deployed to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility, in support of the Joint Interagency Task Force South mission, which also fights illicit drug trafficking in the Caribbean and the Pacific. Oriental.
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