The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) returned to Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 23, 2026, concluding an 11-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation.

During McFaul’s deployment, it employed the Aegis Combat System, providing multi-mission offensive and defensive capabilities during the buildup and execution of Operation Epic Fury. The warship provided anti-air warfare, surface warfare, and naval surface fire support during combat operations, integrating with the USS Abraham Lincoln, USS George H.W. Bush, and USS George Washington Carrier Strike Groups.

“The Sailors of the USS McFaul have performed exceptionally well during this demanding combat deployment, proving themselves as a true warfighting powerhouse. Operating in a highly volatile region, this crew has repeatedly demonstrated the grit, technical mastery, and resilience required to protect our strike group and execute complex missions under pressure,” said Cmdr. Adam Samson, commanding officer, USS McFaul. “I could not be more proud of their unwavering dedication and the quiet professionalism they bring to the watch every single day. The true strength of this warship is, and always will be, its people.”

The warship originally departed Norfolk Nov. 25, 2025, and spent the deployment defending U.S., allied, and partner interests across Europe and the Middle East.

USS McFaul is a fast, multi-mission surface combatant capable of conducting anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare operations. As a Flight II Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer equipped with the Aegis Combat System, the warship is designed to operate either independently or fully integrated within a carrier strike group or amphibious readiness group. By leveraging its Vertical Launching System and advanced radar network, McFaul can simultaneously track and defeat multiple threats in high-intensity environments.

Commissioned on April 25, 1998, in Savannah, Georgia, USS McFaul is the 24th destroyer of its class and the 11th built at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The warship is named after Engineman Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Donald L. McFaul, who made the ultimate sacrifice while attempting to carry a wounded team member to safety during Operation Just Cause in 1989. As the first warship bearing his name, USS McFaul honors his sacrifice and devotion to duty, operating under the ship motto “Courage, Honor, Sacrifice.”

Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic is responsible for manning, training, and equipping assigned surface forces and shore activities, ensuring a capable and combat-ready force to support U.S. national interests. The SURFLANT force consists of more than 66 warships and 34 shore commands.

Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic, Oct. 26, 2026