PEARL HARBOR — The U.S. Pacific Fleet released on Oct. 15 the following statement regarding the encounter that day between an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer and a Russian destroyer:
“The statement from the Russian Defense Ministry about the interaction between our two Navy ships is false.
“While USS Chafee (DDG 90) was conducting routine operations in international water in the Sea of Japan on Oct. 15, 2021, a Russian Udaloy-class destroyer came within approximately 65 yards of USS Chafee (DDG 90) while the ship was preparing for flight operations. The interaction was safe and professional. Although Russia issued a Notice to Airman and Mariners (NOTAM/NOTMAR) in this area for later in the day, the NOTAM/NOTMAR was not in effect at the time of the interaction. At all times, USS Chafee conducted operations in accordance with international law and custom. The United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate where international law allows.”
