Readout of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet/Combined Maritime Forces Commander Vice Adm. Brad Cooper spoke with Commander of Australia’s Joint Task Force 633, Rear Adm. Michael Rothwell

U.S. 5th Fleet provided the following readout:

Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet/Combined Maritime Forces Commander, meet with Rear Adm. Michael Rothwell, commander of Australia’s Joint Task Force (JTF) 633 on May 13 to reaffirm the strong naval relationship between the United States and Australia.

The leaders discussed the importance of the two navies working closely together in support of maritime security and stability throughout the region’s critical waterways.

Cooper specifically thanked Rothwell for Australia’s commitment and contributions to the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).  Australia has completed ten rotations in command of CMF task forces and supports the CMF staff with personnel assigned to key leadership and planning positions.