Rota, Spain – September 10, 2025 – Capt. Kelechi Ndukwe has assumed command of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 60 and Task Force (CTF) 65, relieving Capt. Alex Mamikonian during a change of command ceremony presided over by Vice Adm. Jeffrey Anderson, Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet.
The event featured the Bastón de Mando ceremony, a Spanish naval tradition symbolizing the transfer of authority, conducted by Commander Pedro Jose Arenas Marin, Commanding Officer of ESPS REINA SOFIA (F84).
Capt. Mamikonian, who assumed command in April 2024, led five guided-missile destroyers assigned to Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe (FDNF-E) through 10 patrols and two certification patrols. His tenure included critical operations, strengthened interoperability with allies, and coordination of the U.S. Navy’s role in the Twelve-Day War between Israel and Iran—marking the first successful execution of the Ballistic Missile Defense mission in FDNF-E history.
He also oversaw the homeport shift of USS Oscar Austin and introduced the certification patrol model to sustain surface force readiness in the theater.
Reflecting on his command, Capt. Mamikonian said: “The European theater requires a force that can operate across the spectrum of conflict. From combat operations to building allied capacity, every member has made a direct and meaningful contribution. Leading this team has been a great honor.”
Capt. Ndukwe, who previously commanded USS Halsey and USS Devastator, most recently served at Navy Personnel Command as Post Department Head and Post Commander Command Detailing Branch Head.
In his remarks, he pledged to sustain operational excellence and deepen allied partnerships:
“This DESRON has shown that they are ready to answer the call to support any emerging crisis. I know that we will continue to execute while advancing our capabilities and relationships with our Allies and Partners in theater.”
DESRON 60, based in Rota, Spain, comprises five Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers tasked with executing a broad spectrum of naval operations to advance security and stability across Europe and Africa.
