USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At Sea (NNS) - Guided-missile destroyers USS Momsen (DDG 92), USS Halsey (DDG 97) and USS Shoup (DDG 86) entered the 5th Fleet area of responsibility Nov. 25, rejoining USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) as part of their regularly scheduled deployment.

The three Arleigh Burke class destroyers will contribute to maritime security in the region, bringing the capability to share a common tactical maritime picture through their AEGIS and link systems, and adding six helicopters and numerous surface, air and subsurface elements to maritime security operations.

While Shoup, Momsen and Halsey will rotate through different duties during the coming months, their overall focus will be supporting regional stability, suppressing piracy and improving maritime security.

Shoup will be initially assigned to counter-piracy operations in and around the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and Red Sea; Momsen will be initially assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 152 in the Arabian Gulf; and Halsey will be initially assigned to CTF 50, supporting Abraham Lincoln Strike Group operations.

The mission of Abraham Lincoln Strike Group while deployed to 5th Fleet will focus on the United States' commitment to help build security and stability in the region, deterring destabilizing activities while safeguarding the region's vital links to the global economy.

"The U.S. has been a presence in this region for more than 60 years," said Rear Adm. Mark Guadagnini, strike group commander. "We will continue to support our friends and allies here by maintaining our commitment to cooperation and protecting free flow of commerce."

Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group consists of flagship Abraham Lincoln, embarked Carrier Air Wing 2, San Diego-based guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71), and embarked Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 9.

Ships assigned to DESRON 9 include Everett-based destroyers Momsen, Shoup, Halsey and USS Sterett (DDG 104).

For more news from USS Abraham Lincoln, visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn72/.