U.S., Chinese naval forces conduct group passage exercise

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Vessels from both the U.S. Navy and the People's Republic of China's People's Liberation Army Navy conduced a joint exercise off the coast of Florida.

The training event was a group sail and passing exercise, and marked the first visit to Florida by the People's Liberation Army Navy [PLA(N)]. For the exercise, PLA(N) committed three ships, including Jiangkai II-class frigate Yiyang, Luyang II-class destroyer Jinan, and Fuchi-class oiler Qindaohu. The U.S. Navy committed ships assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26, which includes Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers USS Stout and USS Mason, and Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Monterery.

"The purpose of this exercise was to foster international maritime cooperation between our Navies," Lt. j.g. Lisa Lacross said in a statement on the exercise. "The PASSEX was executed well by all parties involved and allowed us to demonstrate a variety of seamanship skills."

The exercise allowed both naval forces to work on navigation and maneuvering in formation, while also building a working relationship between Chinese and U.S. naval personnel. The group sailing event came as ships assigned to DESRON 26 prepare for deployment in 2016.

"What a unique opportunity to conduct a PASSEX with the Chinese Navy as part of our own routine training off the coast of Florida, " DESRON 26 Commodore Capt. Brian Fort said. "The Sailors aboard Mason, Monterey and Stout will be able to tell their family and friends that they did something that was a first