USS Portland made several port calls in the Gulf area during the first 2 months of 2021. She has teamed up with the USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) for replenishments at sea and exercised with other ships from the 5th Fleet area of operations.
A Laser Weapon System Demonstrator, or LWSD, was installed on Portland for indefinite testing. This laser weapon is the Navy's most advanced and powerful. It is also substantially more powerful that the 30-kilowatt class AN/SEQ-3 LaWS fitted to the USS Ponce back in 2018.
The laser system is a valuable tool for the Navy to use in the Middle East. This system is far more effective than the standard AA gun in terms of destroying targets. However, it should be used in a safe and controlled way.
For this reason, the ship was deployed to the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Gulf in early 2020 to demonstrate the weapon. The Navy will be able to assess how it performs in dangerous environments, and the Navy will have the opportunity to improve its capabilities.
On March 4, 2019, Portland set sail from its homeport to conduct routine training off the coast in southern California. Anchored at Coronado’s Anchorage 171 on April 2 and Moored on Bravo Pier, Naval Air Station North Island on April 3. Mooded at Navy Fuel Farm on Naval Base Point Loma on April 3 for a short stop to refuel.
After this deployment, Portland returned home to San Diego. To prepare for her deployment, she had made a variety of repairs and modifications. One of these was a $19million modification to a contract that she had previously been awarded.
During her deployment, Portland performed numerous amphibious landslides, including a Combined Amphibious Task Force Exercise, in the Arabian Gulf, and a joint amphibious landing Exercise, in Kuwait. Her crew supported these missions by performing a wide range of tasks. She also partnered with 5th Fleet vessels.
The crews from Portland also participated in maritime security operations off the coasts Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Here they collaborated with other 5th Fleet units to fight terrorism, protect shipping infrastructure, and provide maritime security. They were also part of bilateral maritime exercises with Saudi Arabia, such as Exercise Indigo Defender 21.
This deployment saw the ship engage in various training exercises and exercises with allies including Canada, Australia, Great Britain, and Canada. Portland's crews supported their allied counterparts with critical training and support during these engagements.
Portland participated in exercise and training activities as well. She also took part in humanitarian response events and aid to disaster victims in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. These activities are invaluable in providing assistance and relief supplies to the affected areas. They also help local economies. This has helped to strengthen America's ties with these nations, and increase the chances of peace and stability in the future.