The Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Kidd (DDG 100), partnered with El Salvador Maritime Patrol Vessel (PM-13) to conduct a passing exercise (PASSEX), July 29.
PASSEXs are unit exercises requiring cooperation, communication, and interoperability between two or more navies, testing advanced ship maneuvering and tactics. It affords the opportunity to improve crews’ knowledge and demonstrate shared tactics.
“This exercise was a unique opportunity for Kidd to conduct training with the El Salvadoran Navy,” said U.S. Navy Commander Nathan S. Wemett, commanding officer of Kidd. “Working together furthers our mutual ability to cooperate and provides a unique opportunity to reinforce valuable warfighting skills from our partners.”
For the sailors aboard participating ships, it was also their chance to improve their skills with their El Salvadoran counterparts sailing alongside. The two ships conducted division tactics (DIVTACS), a series of tactical shipboard movements, as well as practicing their communication skills.
“Communication was imperative throughout the entire exercise when conducting operations at such close proximity. All communications with the El Salvadoran Navy were incredibly professional and it was a great learning experience for all,” said U.S. Navy Lieutenant Junior Grade Walker Hobson, USS Kidd’s officer of the deck during the PASSEX.
USS Kidd is deployed to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility to support Joint Interagency Task Force South’s mission, which includes counter illicit drug trafficking in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.