USS Wasp arrives in Limassol

The US amphibious assault ship, USS Wasp, arrived in Limassol on Wednesday, Petty Officer 2nd Class Sydney Milligan reported.

According to the publication, the visit is part of a regularly scheduled stop.

“While in port, the ship and the 24th MEU (SOC) team will conduct a routine liberty port as well as participate in a community relations event in coordination with the Agios Stefanos Foundation,” the report said.

Commanding officer of the USS Wasp Christopher Purcell said that the crew are looking forward to experiencing the culture of Cyprus.

He added: “Port visits like this enhance our relationships with partner nations and enable us build upon shared values and experiences.”

The Republic of Cyprus is a frequent destination for US Navy ships operating in the Mediterranean. In August 2023, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) visited Limassol while deployed as part of the Gerald R Ford Carrier Strike Group. In November of the same year, the US 6th Fleet Blue Ridge-class command-and-control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) arrived in Larnaca.

In February 2024, the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) and embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)) conducted their third port visit of deployment in Larnaca.

Limassol marks the second liberty port visit for Wasp and her crew since the ship began deployment June 1.