About this Unit
USS Lake Erie (CG 70) is a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in 1993. Named after the pivotal Battle of Lake Erie from the War of 1812, the ship has played a vital role in ballistic missile defense, most notably intercepting a malfunctioning satellite during Operation Burnt Frost in 2008. Throughout its service, Lake Erie has participated in numerous multinational exercises and operations, enhancing maritime security and fostering international partnerships. The cruiser has been homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, serving as a key asset in the U.S. Pacific Fleet until its decommissioning in 2024.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Lake Erie (CG-70) is named after the Battle of Lake Erie, a pivotal naval engagement during the War of 1812 where Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry secured American control of the lake.
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Commissioning: The ship was commissioned on July 24, 1993, in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and was the 24th Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser.
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Homeport: USS Lake Erie was homeported at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, throughout most of its career, serving as a key asset in the Pacific Fleet.
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Missile Defense Pioneer: Lake Erie played a leading role in the development and operational testing of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) system, including several first-of-its-kind intercepts of ballistic missiles.
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Operation Burnt Frost: In February 2008, USS Lake Erie made headlines by successfully shooting down the malfunctioning USA-193 reconnaissance satellite with a modified SM-3 missile, preventing the satellite’s hazardous fuel from reentering Earth's atmosphere.
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Firsts in BMD: The ship achieved the world's first successful intercept of a ballistic missile in the exo-atmosphere (outside Earth’s atmosphere) using a sea-based missile in 2002.
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International Exercises: Lake Erie participated in numerous multinational exercises, including RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific Exercise), fostering cooperation with allied navies.
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Technological Testing Hub: The cruiser was often used as the testbed for new Aegis weapon system upgrades, remaining at the forefront of naval technological advancements.
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Humanitarian Missions: Over its career, Lake Erie participated in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in the Pacific, demonstrating the Navy’s non-combat roles.
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Decommissioning: After nearly 30 years of distinguished service, USS Lake Erie was decommissioned on March 15, 2024, at Pearl Harbor, marking the end of an era for a ship that significantly advanced naval warfare capabilities.
