That Greece is considered a pillar of stability for the USA is a fact. Without the facilities in the country that Washington uses many of its designs would not have much luck.
In this context, the 6th fleet announced the addition of one more destroyer to Souda. The relevant announcement states:
"The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) arrived in Souda Bay for a regularly scheduled port visit on February 15, 2024.
Anchorage in Souda Bay provides an opportunity to further strengthen the United States' partnership with NATO ally Greece and demonstrates the American commitment to a stable, secure and prosperous Europe. It also allows Arleigh Burke Sailors to experience the unique aspects of Greek culture.
“The hard working men and women of the Arleigh Burke always enjoy the opportunities for port visits in Souda Bay,” said Arleigh Burke Commanding Officer Cmdr. Tyrchra Bowman. “Greece has played such a critical role in our NATO alliance since 1952 in maintaining collective security throughout the region. The Greek people have been longtime friends of the American people. We always feel welcome here and my team and I look forward to opportunities to learn and continue to strengthen our partnership together."
During Arleigh Burke's stay in Souda Gulf, the ship will conduct short-term maintenance as she approaches the third month of her forward-deployed patrol, in which the ship has supported both Carrier Strike Group Twelve and the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group.
Prior to the visit, Arleigh Burke's morale, welfare and entertainment committee organized tours of various cultural sites, including Rethymno and Lake Kourna.
The Arleigh Burke is currently on a scheduled patrol in the US Naval Forces Europe area of operations, used by the US Sixth Fleet to defend US, Allied and partner interests.
For more than 80 years, the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to maintain security and stability.
Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates US naval forces in the US Europe Command (USEUCOM) and US Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. The US Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF and engages maritime forces through the full range of joint and naval operations."
At the same time, as it became known in the context of international activities planned and coordinated by the General Staff of National Defense, the Frigate KANARIS has been integrated into the Strike Force of the Helicopter Carrier USS BATAAN during its voyage within the area of responsibility of the Chief of the General Staff of National Defense. During its participation, the Greek frigate carries out a series of aeronautical exercises with the aim of increasing the level of operational readiness and combat capability.