USS Benfold supports Freedom Edge 26 in Pacific Ocean

U.S. Navy Operation Specialist 1st Class Austin Caudill stands watch in the combat information center aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) during a surface action group exercise in the Western Pacific, Sept. 7, 2026, in support of Freedom Edge 26. Trilateral exercises and operations like Freedom Edge demonstrate continued partnership and the growth of trilateral cooperation to ensure peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific. Benfold is forward deployed and assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest DESRON and U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. U.S. 7th Fleet, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Oscar Diaz)