Related videos:
The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN-68) completed a five-day visit to the Port of Kingston, Jamaica, from June 1 to June 5, as the final stop of Operation Southern Seas 2026, before heading to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, where it will begin its decommissioning process, local media reported.
The visit, framed within the deployment of the Nimitz to the Caribbean that began on May 20, was officially presented as a goodwill mission aimed at strengthening regional maritime cooperation and ties between both countries.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness boarded on June 3 for a meeting focused on maritime security, regional cooperation, and Jamaica's vision of becoming the logistics hub of the Americas.
"A productive afternoon aboard the USS Nimitz, discussing the importance of maritime security, regional cooperation, and Jamaica's vision of becoming the logistics hub of the Americas," wrote Holness on his social media, adding that "Jamaica remains committed to working with our international partners to build a safer and stronger region."
Personnel from the Jamaica Defence Force conducted guided visits aboard the ship for professional exchanges and strengthening military relationships. According to the institution itself, "the visit facilitated professional commitment, knowledge exchange, and the strengthening of relationships among military personnel."
The U.S. Embassy in Kingston also organized tours aboard the Nimitz for Jamaican leaders, maritime students, military and police partners, political and economic stakeholders, and alumni of U.S. exchange programs.
"These tours provided more than just a view of the ship. They created opportunities for dialogue, learning, and connection among the sectors that help shape the future of Jamaica," the Embassy noted upon concluding the visit.
The crew also participated in beautification projects at four schools and in sports activities with local youth, and the ship highlighted the presence of Jamaican-American sailors among its personnel.
Upon departing on June 5, the Nimitz posted a farewell message: “Thank you for the hospitality, and see you later, Jamaica. Each interaction strengthened camaraderie, improved mutual understanding, and reinforced our shared commitment to regional partnership and cooperation.”
The deployment occurred in a context of high tension between Washington and Havana. SOUTHCOM conducted over 150 hours of aerial surveillance over Cuba and deployed the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, consisting of more than 1,300 personnel, under the Operation Southern Lance since May 30.
The USS Nimitz, commissioned on May 3, 1975, has accumulated more than 51 years of active service and is the oldest nuclear aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy. The Navy extended its operational life in March 2026 until March 2027, awaiting the delivery of the USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79), of the Gerald R. Ford class, as reported by the United States Naval Institute.
Filed under: