USS CARL VINSON, At Sea – Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) capable Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) arrived in Busan Jan. 30 for a port visit to conduct military to military exchanges.

Shiloh commanding officer, Capt. James T. Jones, was welcomed by Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy Capt. Chui Sung Mock, commanding officer of the ROKS Choi Young (DDH 981) upon Shiloh’s arrival in Busan.

“The lessons learned in training will help us improve our interoperability and our ability to work together in the future,” said Jones.

With a crew of approximately 300 Sailors, Shiloh is conducting a port visit to Busan to support Aegis interoperability training for joint and combined ROK and U.S. forces. Military to military exchanges, such as this Aegis interoperability event, are intended to strengthen cooperation and improve overall mission effectiveness through focused dialogue and hands-on training.

Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) provides a mobile missile defense capability within international waters to protect both the U.S. and our allies. Interoperability training opportunities such as this one enhance the combined effectiveness of the ROK-US alliance.

Shiloh is one of two US Navy cruisers forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan. The ship is on a routine Western Pacific patrol.