Rear Admiral Carlos Sardiello hosted a Maritime Staff Talks delegation from the Ecuadorian Navy on February 27-28, 2025, in St. Augustine, Florida. The discussions focused on enhancing coordination and interoperability between the two navies, notably in upcoming exercises like UNITAS 2025 and the Continuing Promise 2025 deployment. The meeting concluded with reaffirmations of commitment to mutual security and maritime collaboration in the region.
On February 27-28, 2025, Rear Admiral Carlos Sardiello, the commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet, hosted a delegation from the Ecuadorian Navy in St. Augustine, Florida. The Maritime Staff Talks (MST) were held at the historic St. Francis Barracks, and included U.S. Marine Corps and Coast Guard representatives alongside Admiral Sardiello.
The U.S. delegation welcomed Rear Admiral Luis Eduardo Piedra, General Inspector of the Ecuadorian Navy, who emphasized the significance of trust and cooperation throughout the discussions. “This meeting represents a valuable opportunity to deepen our coordination, interoperability, mutual understanding, directly contributing to strengthening U.S. and regional security and prosperity,” stated Rear Admiral Sardiello.
The talks centered on several upcoming exercises, particularly Ecuador’s involvement in UNITAS 2025, marking a historical moment for both the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Additionally, discussions included the Continuing Promise 2025 deployment, with USNS Comfort set to visit Ecuador during its humanitarian mission.
The U.S. delegation granted updates on hybrid fleet operations within the Eastern Pacific. In turn, Ecuador presented their mission objectives and operational strategies in both domestic and regional maritime contexts.
The MST concluded with a tour of Castillo de San Marcos, alongside a gift exchange between the two delegations. Both Rear Admiral Sardiello and Rear Admiral Piedra signed a document to affirm their agreement on key areas and the importance of ongoing collaboration, reinforcing the enduring partnership between the United States and Ecuador in maritime affairs.
U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet continues to act as a vital maritime partner, promoting security and stability among Caribbean, Central, and South American naval forces.
The Maritime Staff Talks between the U.S. and Ecuadorian Navies highlighted key areas of collaboration and mutual interests aimed at enhancing regional security. Both Rear Admiral Sardiello and Rear Admiral Piedra expressed their commitment to building a stronger partnership and ensuring ongoing cooperation in maritime operations. This meeting not only addressed current projects but also set the groundwork for future joint exercises and initiatives.
Original Source: www.dvidshub.net
