A U.S. Navy frigate that was damaged after running aground in February has undergone repairs and is returning to operations in the Black Sea, the Navy said Tuesday.

The USS Taylor (FFG-50) is returning to the Black Sea following repairs. Photo: U.S. Navy
The USS Taylor (FFG-50) is returning to the Black Sea following repairs. Photo: U.S. Navy

The

Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Taylor (FFG 50) was to re-enter the Black Sea on Tuesday “to reassure NATO allies of the U.S. Navy’s commitment to strengthen and improve interoperability while working toward mutual goals in the region,” the Navy said.

The Navy has been stationing ships in the Black Sea in connection to the tension with Russia over the political instability in Ukraine. The Taylor is part of the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations.

The ship underwent repairs in Souda Bay, Greece after it hit ground on the shores of Turkey Feb. 12. The incident occurred in Samsun, a major port city on the Black Sea.

Once repairs were completed, the Taylor engaged in a round of sea trials to measure performance, seaworthiness, speed and maneuverability.

The ship is homeported in Mayport, Fla.