in-cyprus 6 March 2025
The Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) arrived in Larnaca today for a scheduled port visit, according to a press release by the US Defense Visual Information Distribution Service.
It noted that the vessel, which serves as the flagship of the U.S. 6th Fleet, is conducting operations within the fleet’s area of operations where its crew and embarked staff engage with allies and partners to advance maritime operations and naval diplomacy throughout the region.
“It is an honour for Team 20 to be here in Larnaca as a testament to the commitment of our partnership and shared vision,” said Capt. Colin Price, commanding officer of USS Mount Whitney. “We are proud to be here with our Cypriot partners who are likeminded in our mission to ensure stability and security in the Mediterranean.”
During the port call, Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, commander of U.S. 6th Fleet, and U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus Julie S. Davis will host a reception for senior Cypriot officials aboard the vessel. Additionally, sailors and embarked staff will have opportunities to engage with local officials and explore Cyprus.
Mount Whitney operates with a combined crew of U.S. Navy sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners. Forward deployed to Gaeta, Italy, the vessel conducts operations throughout the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility, which encompasses Europe and Africa.
The U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts joint and naval operations, frequently alongside allied and interagency partners, to advance American national interests, security, and stability across European and African regions, the press release said.
