Category: Indo-Pacific

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam  –  

Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, completed Cope North 24, a three-week-long multinational aviation training exercise, alongside joint, partner, and allied forces in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands from Feb 2 to 23, 2024.

During the exercise, which involved forces from Australia, Japan, France, South Korea, and Canada, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232 accumulated over 280 flight hours and 140 sorties across multiple islands in the Marianas. The unit also practiced the U.S. Air Forces’ Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept as a coalition force as well as the Marine Corps’ Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) unilaterally.

“There will always be challenges working with coalition militaries and different standard operating procedures that each military has. It’s an excellent opportunity for us to come out here, work together, exercise together, and draw from the differences and similarities to achieve our common goals,” said Flight Lieutenant Thomas Rogers, an officer with 383rd Contingency Response, Royal Australian Air Force.

The Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) concept aims to perform aviation operations in austere environments through low signature generating methods. During the exercise, a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 transported a small package of Marines and refueling equipment from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan to Guam, located over 1,600 miles away, to provide immediate refueling capabilities to F/A-18 Hornet aircraft.

“The concept of EABO allows us to accomplish our mission in providing fueling support for any aircraft, in this iteration an F/A-18, in any location. So, wherever an aircraft can land and drop off our equipment and personnel, we can then set up and conduct refueling operations,” said 2nd Lt. William Peterson, a logistics officer with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171.

Approximately 2400 service members and 85 aircraft participated in Cope North 24 and expended over 30,000 pounds of ordnance. Initially established in 1978 as a bilateral exercise based out of Misawa Air Base, Japan, Cope North moved to Andersen Air Force Base in 1999. In 2012, it became a trilateral exercise with the addition of the Royal Australian Air Force and is currently U.S. Pacific Air Forces’ largest multilateral exercise series.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

PACIFIC OCEAN  –  

NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems Landing and Recovery team and the Department of Defense successfully completed the second recovery test for the crewed Artemis II mission aboard the amphibious transport dock USS San Diego (LPD 22) off the coast of San Diego, Feb. 28.

Underway Recovery Test 11 was the eleventh in a series of tests and the first time the Department of Defense and NASA completed a full recovery simulation with the Artemis II Flight Crew.

“The U.S. Navy has many unique capabilities that make it an ideal partner to support NASA. Amphibious transport dock ships, such as ours, give NASA the ability to recover the capsule and collect critical data to help make sure everything is ready to recover the astronauts and capsule during future Artemis missions,” said Capt. David Walton, commanding officer of USS San Diego. “Our combined NASA and Department of Defense team has gone through extensive training to make sure we recover our astronauts and Orion safely.”

Underway Recovery Test 11 allowed NASA and the Department of Defense to practice operational procedures for Artemis II, including timing of crew extraction from the capsule to the ship’s medical bay and day-and-night recovery procedures to support certification of personnel and processes for Artemis II mission.

Artemis II astronauts U.S. Navy Capt. Reid Wiseman, U.S. Navy Capt. Victor Glover, Christina Hammock Koch, and Jeremy Hansen embarked the ship for Underway Recovery Test 11.

“This crew is really setting the foundation for the whole operation — all other forces are welcomed onboard and we operate as a team, but it’s really the culture of the ship that leads to the success of this mission,” said Wiseman. “Being back on a Navy ship, being at sea, seeing everyone smiling, it has been a real highlight for me.”

Working in support of U.S. Space Command, additional U.S. Navy units included Expeditionary Strike Group 3, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Expeditionary Mobile Unit 1, and Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, with support from U.S. Air Force’s First Air Force, Detachment 3, and U.S. Space Force’s 45th Space Launch Delta Weather Squadron.

After the 2022 successful recovery of the Orion spacecraft from the Artemis I mission using the amphibious transport dock USS Portland (LPD 27), and with the addition of crew for the Artemis II mission, the recovery teams modified their timelines and procedures to ensure the astronauts will be safely on the recovery ship within two hours after splashing down in the Pacific Ocean.

Once the crew splashes down, a group of Navy divers will approach Orion and ensure it is safe for the astronauts to exit the spacecraft. The divers will then open the spacecraft hatch and help the astronauts exit one by one onto an inflatable “front porch.” This raft wraps around the capsule and allows for the crew to be picked up via helicopter and flown back to the recovery ship. Once the astronauts are on board the recovery ship, teams will secure Orion with a series of lines and slowly tow it back inside the ship, just as they did during the Artemis I mission.

During the test, the team practiced the Artemis II recovery procedures, releasing and recovering the crew module test article, a full-scale mock-up of Orion.

Prior to Underway Recovery Test 11, Navy dive teams were trained at NASA Johnson Space Center’s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory, a large pool where astronauts train for spacewalks and engineers refine procedures.

“Each time we train for this underway recovery we learn something new,” said Senior Chief Navy Diver Ryan Crider, who leads the team of divers assigned to Underway Recovery Test 11. “For my team, practicing our procedures in different conditions and environments helps to build our confidence and proficiency and prepares us to be successful when it matters most.”

The recovery team will capture lessons learned and apply them to future underway tests to make sure they are ready to recover the Artemis II crew and bring them home safely.

“Previous Underway Recovery Tests have perfected the procedures and techniques used by NASA and the DoD to recover the Orion crew module from the water,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Pieper, First Air Force, Detachment 3 Artemis Program director. “Underway Recovery Test 11 made the next key step by incorporating the Artemis II crew into the operation to finalize the methods that will safely recover the astronauts following their mission to the moon.”

As the Department of Defense’s Human Space Flight Support manager, U.S. Space Command is responsible for the terrestrial rescue and recovery of NASA-sponsored astronauts and spacecraft for the Artemis program.

“The DoD has been conducting human space flight support operations for over six decades with each new mission presenting new challenges to overcome,” said Pieper. “This underway recovery test emphasizes the vital relationships between NASA, U.S. Space Command, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Navy, and Air Forces Space, all of whom play an important role in advancing spaceflight in the 21st Century and laying the foundation for future human exploration of the moon, Mars, and beyond.”

Expeditionary Strike Group 3 comprises three amphibious squadrons, 16 amphibious warships, and eight naval support elements including approximately 18,000 active-duty and reserve Sailors and Marines. As the deputy commander for amphibious and littoral warfare, U.S. 3rd Fleet, the Expeditionary Strike Group 3 commander also oversees Mine Countermeasures Group 3 and the 16 littoral combat ships under Littoral Combat Ship Squadrons 1 and 3.

Expeditionary Strike Group 3 is postured in support of U.S. 3rd Fleet as a globally responsive and scalable naval command element, capable of generating, deploying, and employing naval forces and formations for crisis and contingency response, forward presence, and major combat operations focusing on amphibious operations, humanitarian and disaster relief and support to defense civil authorities, and expeditionary logistics.

For more information on Underway Recovery Test 11, please visit:

https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/URT11

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

OKINAWA, Japan  –  

A West Coast-based U.S. Naval Special Warfare unit integrated with a Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) Special Boat Unit (SBU) to conduct joint training on navigation, communications, radar, and more from Feb. 15-17, 2024 at Naval Base White Beach in Okinawa, Japan.

The joint training was designed to further modernize the partnership between U.S. forces and Japan, as well as strengthen joint capabilities and security strategies in the Indo-Pacific region.

“Working hand-in-hand with our partners in the JMSDF SBU offers us the opportunity to learn together and grow both as separate units, and as allied partners,” said a West Coast-based Naval Special Warfare operator who participated in the exercise. “Building on our existing relationship offers us all the opportunity to continue to expand our joint knowledge.”

The training, which included classroom instruction and practical application, focused heavily on small-unit skills such as mission planning, navigation and communications. The event culminated with an on-the-water exchange of tactics among the partner forces.

For more than six decades, the U.S.-Japan alliance has served as a cornerstone for peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. High quality, realistic training exchanges such as this help to further synchronize special operations capabilities among partners and allies.

Naval Special Warfare is the nation’s elite maritime special operations force, uniquely positioned to extend the Fleet’s reach and gain and maintain access for the Joint Force in competition and conflict.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii  –  

Pacific Air Forces hosted leaders from the Philippines Air Force for a bilateral discussion and subject matter expert exchange on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Feb. 13-15, 2024.

Also known as Airmen-to-Airmen Talks (A2ATs), these events enable PACAF personnel to expand foreign relations with allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific region. Routine A2ATs help establish and maintain a strong foundation for military-to-military relations, engagements, and interoperability, all in support of mutually aligned goals.

“During the discussions we were able to go over 183 line-items; determine and prioritize 10 lines-of-effort; and well-position ourselves to execute in 2025,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Morgan Clark, PACAF Philippines desk officer.

Carrying over from the past A2ATs, Air Domain Awareness was one of many focuses during this iteration for PACAF and PAF. Other objectives included incorporating working group direction for 2025 plan; discussing upcoming combined air patrols; modernizing capabilities; and increase information sharing.

In the closing comments, the PAF co-chair thanked PACAF for the time to address important topics and prepare for the future.

“I extend my heart felt gratitude to PACAF staff for your willingness to engage in dialog and share your experiences and expertise,” said Maj. Gen. Ramon Guiang, Vice Commanding General of the PAF. “Together we are stronger and more resilient in facing emerging challenges.”

Rounding out the week-long event, U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Mark Weber, Air National Guard Assistant to the PACAF Commander and co-chair to the A2AT, highlighted the strength of the U.S. and PHL alliance.

“We proved the U.S. and Philippines have, and continue to build, an unbreakable bond,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Mark Weber, Air National Guard Assistant to the PACAF Commander. “Together we have proven we are reliable security partners focused on preserving peace and prosperity across the region.”

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

OSAKA, Japan  –  

The forward-deployed amphibious assault carrier, USS America (LHA 6) with embarked Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived in Osaka, Japan, Feb. 27.

The purpose of the visit is to strengthen the relationship between Japan and the United States, provide the crew an opportunity for some rest and relaxation, and to make logistic preparations for participation in the 18th iteration of Exercise Iron Fist.

“We’re ecstatic to be returning to Osaka,” said America’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Manny Pardo. “Our partnership with Japan is critical in maintaining peace and stability within the area of operations. Port visits like this are always special because they give our two communities a chance to interact and build a comradery that goes so much deeper than just an alliance between two countries; but is instead a real friendship between people with shared values.”

While in port, Sailors and Marines will have the opportunity to participate in community relations activities with the Holy Family Orphanage and sightseeing tours coordinated through America’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation team.

Exercise Iron Fist is an annual exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

The 18th iteration of the exercise will occur in various locations in Japan, from Kyushu to Okinawa, and at sea.

USS America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), along with Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

KATHMANDU, Nepal – Adm. John C. Aquilino, Commander, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, traveled to Nepal from Feb. 24-26, 2024, demonstrating the strength of the U.S.-Nepal partnership. 

Aquilino met with President of Nepal Ram Chandra Paudel, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Purna Bahadur Khadka and Chief of Army Staff Prabhu Ram Sharma, highlighting the mutual respect and partnership between the two countries. 

During his visit, Aquilino attended Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise Shanti Prayas IV, which was co-hosted by the Nepali Army and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command at the Birendra Peace Operations Training Centre, in Panchkhal, Nepal and runs from Feb. 20-March 4, 2024.

The annual exercise series trains units to deploy in support of U.N. peacekeeping missions across the globe, with this iteration including more than 1,100 representatives from 17 nations, to include Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, Fiji, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Uruguay, and Vietnam.

The U.S. military and members of the Nepali Army have a long-standing relationship and routinely participate in combined peacekeeping and disaster preparedness exercises together, demonstrating the continued growth of the over 75-year relationship built on dedication, mutual respect and trust toward the Nepalese people.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

DoD Spokesperson Lt. Col. Martin Meiners provided the following readout:

Dr. Michael Chase, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia, met with Brigadier General D. Gankhuyag, State Secretary of the Mongolian Ministry of Defense, today at the Pentagon for the annual Bilateral Defense Framework.

The two officials discussed regional security cooperation and global security developments, among other topics. DASD Chase also commended Mongolia’s active participation in United Nations peacekeeping operations.

Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to the U.S.-Mongolia bilateral defense relationship and agreed to advance defense cooperation on shared interests to support a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

CHONBURI PROVINCE, Kingdom of Thailand  –  

Elements of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived Feb. 23 in Chonburi province aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Somerset (LPD 25) to participate in Exercise Cobra Gold 2024.

Hundreds of 15th MEU Marines and Sailors will support Cobra Gold 2024, the 43rd iteration of the annual theater security cooperation event that takes place Feb. 26 through March 8. 2024, in the Kingdom of Thailand.

Cobra Gold 2024 demonstrates the U.S. commitment to the region by building interoperability, multilateral cooperative arrangements, advancing common interests and a commitment to our Allies and partners in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

The 15th MEU offloaded critical equipment and resources from Somerset that will be necessary for participation in the annual multilateral exercise via surface and air connectors. The surface connectors included landing craft, air cushion assigned to Assault Craft Unit 5, and air connectors include CH-53E Super Stallions attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced).

During the Thai-led exercise, Marines and Sailors of the 15th MEU and the Somerset will focus on field training to enhance interoperability and strengthen regional relationships.

“It’s an honor to be here in the Kingdom of Thailand, along with the 29 other nations participating in the 43rd iteration of Exercise Cobra Gold,” said U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Lindsay Mathwick, commanding officer of Combat Logistics Battalion 15 and commander of troops aboard Somerset. “This exercise is a longstanding symbol of the U.S.-Thai defense alliance and is a valuable opportunity for us to increase our multilateral cooperation with the other participating nations.”

Key 15th MEU training events will include an amphibious assault exercise (AMPHIBEX), combined arms live-fire exercise (CALFEX), non-combatant evacuation operation (NEO) exercise, as well as combined unit-level training events across three training sites.

Cobra Gold 2024 will be the first exercise for 15th MEU Marines during their scheduled deployment aboard Somerset. They will conduct various operations to allow for a broader U.S. presence in the region and support additional training events and exercises with ally and partner nations throughout their deployment.

Somerset and the embarked elements of the 15th MEU are part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 15th MEU team. The Boxer ARG and 15th MEU team will operate in a disaggregated construct during parts of its deployment. Somerset and embarked elements of the 15th MEU are under the command and control of Task Force 76/3, employed by U.S. 7th Fleet to operate with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Task Force 76/3 is an operational command based out of Okinawa and is responsible for conducting expeditionary warfare operations to support a full range of U.S. 7th Fleet theater contingencies, ranging from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to full combat operations.

For more information, photos and stories about Joint Exercise Cobra Gold, including past iterations, visit the Joint Exercise Cobra Gold public web page: www.dvidshub.net/feature/CobraGold, follow on Twitter @ExerciseCG, or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ExerciseCobraGold. Additional photos and videos are available at www.dvidshub.net/units/15thMEUpa.

Media queries can be directed to the Cobra Gold 2024 Combined Joint Information Bureau at cobragold.uspao@gmail.com.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii  –  

The United States Army War College International Fellows visited the U.S. Army Pacific Headquarters Feb. 21, 2024, to gain knowledge of leadership and landpower in the Indo-Pacific theater.

The purpose of the visit was to provide the International Fellows an appreciation for security challenges and decisions that strategic leaders face in the region.

“The significance of this visit is the understanding of national policy as it is conveyed from the executive level to the Department of Defense.” said the Chief of the International Student Management Office Kevin D. Bremer.

Since many of the International Fellows will fulfill leadership roles, this visit also helped them become familiar with responsibilities for developing, training, resourcing, equipping, and sustaining military forces.

“The reason why we bring them to Indo-Pacific headquarters and the U.S. Army Pacific headquarters is so they know who key players are.” stated Bremer.

The importance of learning from and working with international leaders was emphasized by the opening remarks made by the U.S. Army Pacific Commanding General Gen. Charles A. Flynn.

“The connections we form aren’t just between our armies,” said Flynn. “What we’re doing here is integrating and binding together the multinational forces in a way where our interoperability, our readiness, our confidence is enhanced.”

Flynn continued to convey the importance of landpower in the theater.

“Landpower in this region is absolutely critical and it has been for a long time,” said Flynn. “Landpower is a key component in the security architecture that helps keep the Indo-Pacific region safe, free and open because it protects national sovereignty.”

The United States Army War College’s mission is to educate and develop leaders for service at the strategic level while advancing their knowledge in the global application of Landpower 

Each year approximately eighty senior military officers from around the world are extended an invitation from the Chief of Staff of the United States Army to attend the United States Army War College according to www.armywarcollege.edu.

The International Fellows are instructed in areas ranging from military concepts and doctrine to national and theater level strategies.