Sailors from USS Augusta (SSN 710), USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) and aviators from Patrol Squadron (VP) 5 are participating in a National Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)-led exercise Noble Manta from April 12-22. The largest joint anti-submarine warfare exercise held annually in the Mediterranean Sea, Noble Manta 2007 involves 10 NATO countries which provide maritime patrol aircraft, surface and subsurface assets. The exercise is in direct support of a Naval Forces Europe/6th Fleet strategic priority of improving maritime security. “This exercise is important because it allows the U.S. and allied partner nations to improve regional maritime security and safety,” said Rear Adm. Jeff Fowler, Commander Submarines, Allied Naval Forces South.