SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to Coastal Riverine Squadron (CRS) 3 Mark VI boat crew provided exercise support during USS Carl Vinson's (CVN 70) Composite Unit Training Exercise (COMPTUEX), Nov. 4, marking a first for the patrol boat.

Operating off the California coast, the MK VI crew assisted with the COMPTUEX, which aligned with the squadron's ongoing pre-deployment training.

"The event also coincided with our Final Evaluation Problem as we reach the end of our training cycle and prepare to step off for the squadron's upcoming deployment," said Cmdr. Mark Postill, commanding officer, CRS 3.

The MK VI is an 85-foot combatant craft that provides a persistent capability to patrol shallow littoral areas for the purpose of force protection for U.S. and coalition forces, as well as safeguarding critical infrastructure. The MK VI patrol boats are deployed in two separate strategic areas of operation: Commander, Task Force (CTF) 56 in Bahrain and CTF 75 in Guam.

"The opportunity to work with the strike group provided excellent fleet integration training for our MK VI crews," said Postill.

Capt. David Miller, commander, Coastal Riverine Group (CRG) 1, further emphasized the importance of incorporating MK VI into the exercise.

"MK VI is a real game changer for the Coastal Riverine Force and the Navy at large. We have only begun to scratch the surface of its ability to integrate and operate with other naval forces," said Miller. "The strength in participating in COMPTUEX is that we can provide real-world training for the strike group and our Coastal Riverine Sailors while gaining valuable insight into MK VI interoperability."

The MK VI patrol boats are globally transportable and can operate from amphibious ship well decks to forward locations, while partnering with allied navies at a new and enhanced effectiveness. The MK VI will also provide enhanced capabilities such as superior speed, range and maneuverability. The MK VI can also reach speeds in excess of 35 knots and has a range of more than 600 nautical miles.

CRS 3 is part of the Coastal Riverine Force which operates in harbors, rivers and bays, across the littorals and ashore. The primary mission is to conduct maritime security operations across all phases of military operations by defending high value assets, critical maritime infrastructure, ports and harbors both inland and on coastal waterways against enemies and when commanded conduct offensive combat operations.