By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class James R. Ships and aircraft from Carrier Strike Group 9 and the of conducted a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) while underway near , April 15. The helicopter, flown by HSL-47's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Shawn Malone and copilot Lt. Christopher Moore, made several landings on the ship's flight deck, giving the crew of Steadfast the opportunity to practice helicopter recovery procedures including chocking and chaining (referred to as "lashing" by the Singapore Navy) and refueling evolutions. "The Singapore Navy is increasing its capabilities and acquiring H-60 type helicopters and their pilots are training at (), so this is an opportunity to work together and for us to train with them for helicopter shipboard operations," Malone said.
