JEJU ISLAND, Republic of Korea – The Ronald Reagan Strike Group, to include the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruisers USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) and USS Antietam (CG 54), participated in the Republic of Korea 2018 International Fleet Review near Jeju Island, Republic of Korea (ROK) Oct. 11.
“The 2018 International Fleet Review is a wonderful opportunity to engage with our allies, partners and friends on a scale that our sailors rarely experience,” said Rear Adm. Karl Thomas, Commander Task Force 70. “I attended the 2008 IFR and I can tell you first hand that this week will build stronger relationships and understanding to further peace, security and stability in this important region.”
The 2018 IFR is the third hosted by the ROK and one of the largest fleet reviews in the world, with 50 ships from 14 nations, and delegations from 45 countries in attendance. The U.S. Navy has participated in all three ROK hosted IFRs with USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), Chancellorsville and USS Greeneville (SSN 772) in attendance in 1998 and USS George Washington (CVN 73), USS Cowpens (CG 63), USS McCampbell (DDG 85) and USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) in attendance in 2008.
The port visit to Jeju Island by Ronald Reagan is the first time a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier has conducted a port visit to Jeju Island, and Ronald Reagan’s first time participating in the IFR. While on Jeju Island, Sailors will have the opportunity to take part in sporting events, ship tours, service projects, and other events alongside the other participating nations. Additionally, Sailors can partake in several Morale, Welfare and Recreation events including nature tours, golfing trips and enjoy a chance to rest and relax.
The Ronald Reagan Strike Group is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.