The Minister of Defense of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia flew aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt on Tuesday to observe carrier operations at sea.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud’s visit was marked by eight bells and salutes from sideboys. The prince was welcomed by Rear Adm. Andrew Lewis, commander of Carrier Strike Group 12.
Al Saud observed flight operations as aircraft launched from and landed aboard the carrier’s flight deck.
The carrier, which will be based in San Diego after it’s current deployment, is launching air strikes against Islamic terrorists as part of Operation Inherent Resolve.
“I am happy to have been here with you today,” said Al Saud. “I admire American professionalism and American capabilities. America has a heavy responsibility, and throughout the Saudi-American history we have not let down our allies. It will remain this way, and this visit encourages me to strengthen the relationship to a new level.”
Saudi aircraft have joined American planes and drones in striking Islamic terrorists in Syria and Iraq.
