The United States Navy announced earlier this week that it will send the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN-68) to South America as part of the Southern Seas 2026 naval exercise, which includes operations with partner countries and scheduled port calls in Brazil.
According to a statement from the United States Navy, the ship will be accompanied by the destroyer USS Gridley (DDG-101) and will carry out exercises at sea with forces from countries in the region. In addition to Brazil, activities are planned with Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru and Mexico, as well as port visits in Panama and Jamaica.
According to the US Navy, the naval exercise includes joint training, technical exchange and demonstrations of operations with aircraft carriers. American Rear Admiral Carlos Sardiello stated that the operation seeks to expand regional cooperation.
“The deployment provides a unique opportunity to increase interoperability and enhance joint capability with partner forces,” he said.
Operation Southern Seas has been ongoing since 2007 and, according to the US Navy, aims to strengthen partnerships, expand maritime security and coordinate actions against common threats in the Western Hemisphere.
According to Forbes magazine, the deployment also marks one of the last major missions of the USS Nimitz, which is in its final phase of service after more than 50 years of operation.
