For the first time since the Vietnam War, a U.S. aircraft carrier, the USS Carl Vinson, has docked in Danang, Vietnam — with a cruiser and a destroyer in tow. This has been part of the ongoing efforts to bolster the relationship between the United States and Vietnam, and the DOD says that its mission is one of cultural exchange, as well as visiting the center for victims of Agent Orange.
Navy Adm. Scott Swift, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, said that, “Our nations’ relationship has reached new heights in the past few years, and USS Carl Vinson’s port visit to Vietnam is a reflection of that … I am confident that engagements like this will further expand the comprehensive partnership between the United States and Vietnam.”
It is also likely that the U.S. is reminding the western Pacific that it is still a major power there. Particularly China, who has been building up their own naval forces in the area. The Chinese Navy has continued to boost their presence in the South China Sea (just east of Vietnam, but west of the Philippines). There, they have constructed man-made islands on top of reefs, turning them into strategically placed military bases. While there have been multiple disputes regarding these moves, the U.S. has not taken sides in such matters — however they do continue to urge neighboring nations to allow freedom of movement from all nations throughout the area. Judging by the U.S.’s own movement through, they obviously do not give China recognition as any sole authority over those seas.
There is no doubt that China controls the water in this area, but formidable American naval forces continue to make their presence known.
The U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Daniel Kritenbrink said that, “I think the visit by USS Carl Vinson demonstrates our commitment to the U.S.-Vietnam partnership. It also demonstrates the dramatic progress we made in our bilateral relationship in recent years.” Kritenbrink also pointed out that Vietnam and the U.S. both have “a desire to maintain peace, prosperity, unimpeded commerce, freedom of navigation upon which the region and its economies depend.”
While this the first time a ship of this magnitude has sailed these waters since the Vietnam War, in 2016 a submarine tender and a destroyer also visited — the USS Frank Cable and the USS John S. McCain.
Featured image courtesy of the Associated Press.
For the first time since the Vietnam War, a U.S. aircraft carrier, the USS Carl Vinson, has docked in Danang, Vietnam — with a cruiser and a destroyer in tow. This has been part of the ongoing efforts to bolster the relationship between the United States and Vietnam, and the DOD says that its mission is one of cultural exchange, as well as visiting the center for victims of Agent Orange.
Navy Adm. Scott Swift, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, said that, “Our nations’ relationship has reached new heights in the past few years, and USS Carl Vinson’s port visit to Vietnam is a reflection of that … I am confident that engagements like this will further expand the comprehensive partnership between the United States and Vietnam.”
It is also likely that the U.S. is reminding the western Pacific that it is still a major power there. Particularly China, who has been building up their own naval forces in the area. The Chinese Navy has continued to boost their presence in the South China Sea (just east of Vietnam, but west of the Philippines). There, they have constructed man-made islands on top of reefs, turning them into strategically placed military bases. While there have been multiple disputes regarding these moves, the U.S. has not taken sides in such matters — however they do continue to urge neighboring nations to allow freedom of movement from all nations throughout the area. Judging by the U.S.’s own movement through, they obviously do not give China recognition as any sole authority over those seas.
There is no doubt that China controls the water in this area, but formidable American naval forces continue to make their presence known.
The U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Daniel Kritenbrink said that, “I think the visit by USS Carl Vinson demonstrates our commitment to the U.S.-Vietnam partnership. It also demonstrates the dramatic progress we made in our bilateral relationship in recent years.” Kritenbrink also pointed out that Vietnam and the U.S. both have “a desire to maintain peace, prosperity, unimpeded commerce, freedom of navigation upon which the region and its economies depend.”
While this the first time a ship of this magnitude has sailed these waters since the Vietnam War, in 2016 a submarine tender and a destroyer also visited — the USS Frank Cable and the USS John S. McCain.
Featured image courtesy of the Associated Press.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States
Scrubba Wash Bag
Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.
Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.
COMMENTS
There are on this article.
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.