The USS Carl Vinson CVN 70 Strike Group including Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2 arrived in the Republic of Korea for scheduled maneuvers with the South Korean military last week. The aircraft carrier had just come from two weeks of routine operations in the South China Sea.

Watch Below a Video From North Korea Depicting them Destroying the USS Carl Vinson

“The training opportunities we have in this region are world-class and allow us to build upon our strong alliance with the Republic of Korea,” said Rear Adm. James Kilby, commander, Carrier Strike Group 1. “For more than 60 years, the United States and Republic of Korea have operated side-by-side as partners and I couldn’t be more excited to further this relationship.”

“For many Sailors, myself included, this is the first time visiting the Republic of Korea and we are looking forward to all the ROK has to offer,” said Capt. Douglas Verissimo, commanding officer of Carl Vinson. “The Sailors will have opportunities to go on tours, try the local food and gain an appreciation for the Republic of Korea’s rich culture.” – US Navy

The US Navy routinely does joint exercises with the South Koreans in this area of the world but this time tensions with North Korea seem to be at an all time high. Just today North Korean leader Kim Jong-un released a video showing his forces apparently destroying a US aircraft carrier and bomber.

Kim Jong-un also said recently that if the US took any action against North Korea they would reduce the US ‘to ashes’ with nuclear attacks.

Featured image of the USS Carl Vinson at sea by US Navy