The Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) is en route to the Black Sea, the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet has informed.

The vessel has begun its north-bound transit of the Dardanelles Strait.

“USS Fort McHenry’s transit into the Black Sea reaffirms our collective resolve to Black Sea security and enhances our strong relationships with our NATO allies and partners in the region,” said Vice Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti, commander of the U.S. 6th Fleet.