WASHINGTON, August 07. /ITAR-TASS/. The U.S. Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser Vella Gulf entered the Black Sea on Thursday, said U.S. 6th fleet.

The crew’s aim was to ensure peace and stability in the region, the U.S. navy press office reported earlier.

“The increased presence of the U.S. Navy in Europe allows us to work with our allies and partners in improving the fighting forces to maintain security in the region,” it said.

The cruiser was temporarily stationed in the Black Sea several times, in particular on May 9. Ticonderoga class cruisers are equipped with Tomahawk missiles, ASROC anti-submarine missiles, SM-2 and SM-3 surface-to-air missiles. Two multi-purpose helicopters are embarked upon the 172-meter long and 16-meter wide cruiser with total displacement of 9,800 tonnes. Vella Gulf full speed exceeds 30 knots.

Ships of this class were the first to be equipped with Aegis combat system in the U.S. navy. It tracks and guides weapons to 250-300 air targets.