The USS Blue Ridge, the flagship of the U.S. 7th Fleet, departed Sydney after a scheduled port visit from May 26 to May 31, 2025. This marked the first visit by the Blue Ridge to Sydney since 2015. The last two U.S. Navy ships to visit were the USS Emory S. Land in 2024 and the USS Canberra in 2023.
Captain Nicholas DeLeo, commanding officer of USS Blue Ridge, expressed gratitude for the hospitality received: “We are grateful to the people of Sydney and our gracious hosts from the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) for the warm welcome in this beautiful city.”
Vice Admiral Fred Kacher highlighted the significance of this stop during their Indo-Pacific Patrol: “Our port visit to Sydney marks another important stop during our ongoing Indo-Pacific Patrol aboard the 7th Fleet flagship, USS Blue Ridge. The U.S.-Australia alliance reaches back more than a century, and we share extremely close ties with the Australian Defence Force.”
During their stay, leadership from both fleets engaged in ship tours and interactions with RAN counterparts. Rear Admiral Christopher Smith of RAN emphasized the importance of cooperation between their navies: “The United States is our closest ally and principal strategic partner... For more than 100 years, our two nations have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with an alliance built on mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty and national interests.”
Sailors participated in community events including a futsal match hosted by RAN members and a community relations event at ‘Our Big Kitchen’ in Bondi. RAN Leading Seaman Sam Hall commented on these interactions: “Futsal brings a bit of camaraderie; it’s also a nice chance to interact with other navies especially a navy we’re really close with.”
The U.S. 7th Fleet Band performed at notable locations such as New South Wales Parliament House and Anzac Memorial.
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Erika Olson remarked on the visit's significance: “Thank you to the U.S. 7th Fleet and USS Blue Ridge for your visit to Sydney showcasing the strength and depth of the U.S-Australia alliance.”
The Blue Ridge continues its patrols in the Indo-Pacific region aiming to deter aggression and strengthen alliances.
For further information about USS Blue Ridge or U.S. 7th Fleet activities, official websites are available.