The USS Blue Ridge, flagship of the U.S. 7th Fleet, arrived in Sydney, Australia on May 26, 2025. This visit marks the ship's first stop in the coastal city since 2015. The visit underscores the alliance between the United States and Australia and their longstanding ties.
During the visit, leadership from the USS Blue Ridge will meet with Australian counterparts and local leaders to discuss operational readiness, future warfighting capabilities, and ways to enhance bilateral relations. The port call also serves as an opportunity for resupply of fuel and other necessities for the vessel.
Vice Adm. Fred Kacher, commander of U.S. 7th Fleet, remarked on the significance of this visit: “Our port visit to Sydney marks another important stop during our ongoing Indo-Pacific Patrol aboard the 7th Fleet flagship, USS Blue Ridge.” He highlighted the century-long alliance with Australia and expressed gratitude towards Sydney's hospitality.
The U.S. 7th Fleet is tasked with providing operational control in both Western Pacific and Indian Oceans while fostering regional stability through cooperation with allies.
U.S. Embassy Australia Chargé d’Affaires Erika Olson commented on this event by saying that it continues a long tradition of friendship between both nations: “This visit by the USS Blue Ridge... is emblematic of our strong alliance.” She noted that some crew members would be experiencing Sydney for the first time while others reconnect with familiar faces.
USS Blue Ridge regularly conducts patrols in the Indo-Pacific region aimed at deterring aggression and reinforcing alliances.
For further updates from USS Blue Ridge or U.S. 7th Fleet news can be found online at their respective websites.