The Legend-class national security cutter Coast Guard Cutter Hamilton (WMSL 753) conducted a series of maritime exercises with the Turkish navy, April 30, 2021, in the Black Sea.
Hamilton’s crew conducted a passing exercise and cross-platform helicopter operations with the Turkish navy’s Yavuz-class frigate TCG Turgutreis (F 241).
During flight operations, helicopters from both nations landed on each other’s vessel’s flight decks. An Agusta Bell AB 212 helicopter from Turgutreis landed aboard USCGC Hamilton (WMSL 753), while a U.S. Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter landed on Turgutreis. These maneuvers and operations enhanced both crews’ ability to communicate and conduct precise ship handling.
The U.S. Coast Guard has been a consistent partner with European nations, strengthening and enforcing robust maritime governance. Hamilton is the first U.S. Coast Guard cutter to visit the Black Sea since 2008. The last U.S. Coast Guard cutter to visit the Black Sea, USCGC Dallas (WHEC 716), sailed to the Black Sea twice, in 2008 and 1995.
