The guided-missile destroyer USS Bulkeley flexed its self-defense capabilities against four simulated fast inshore attack craft during composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX), on Sept. 2.
Bulkeley’s crew, the “Wolfpack”, led by Commanding Officer Cmdr. Jesse Espe, is underway for a month-long composite training unit exercise consisting of various training events based on real-world situations that deployed units may encounter.
During the training, three high speed maneuverable surface targets repeatedly sped inbound toward Bulkeley, trying to provoke an incident.
Following the probing exercise, two training evaluators on jet skis approached Bulkeley at a high rate of speed, brandishing simulated weapons. Bulkeley’s small caliber action team simulated warning shots. When this proved ineffective, Bulkeley simulated engaging the targets, neutralizing them.
Having completed the training evolution, Bulkeley continued the monthlong exercise.
“Team Bulkeley has trained extensively at the unit and integrated level in preparation for this event,” said Espe, “The Wolfpack is extremely excited about participating in COMPTUEX and proving our readiness for deployment.”
For Bulkeley, this is the final milestone training event prior to its scheduled deployment this fall with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group.
