Category: US Indo Pacific Command

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

CHEONGJU AIR BASE, Republic of Korea  –  

Members of the Wolf Pack traveled to Cheongju Air Base, Republic of Korea, to participate in Buddy Squadron 24-4 on June 24, 2024.

Airmen assigned to the the 80th Fighter Squadron and 80th Fighter Generation Squadron participated in the five-day exercise meant to increase interoperability while employing airpower jointly with Republic of Korea Air Force mission partners.

“Buddy Squadron events are put on between the ROKAF and 7th Air Force to integrate U.S. and ROKAF flying units,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Calvin Boerwinkle, 80th FS Buddy Squadron 24-4 project officer. “For this one, we deployed from Kunsan to Cheongju for a week of flying integration with the 152nd Fighter Squadron.”

These training events reinforce the 8th Fighter Wing’s ability to deliver mission capable F-16 Fighting Falcons anywhere on the Korean peninsula.

ROKAF Maj. Cha, Seungmin, 152nd FS F-35 pilot, whose first assignment as a pilot was with the 111th FS TIGERS at Kunsan AB, was excited to reintegrate with the 80th FS after spending a time doing so early in his career.

“I’m very happy to be with the JUVATS again and I feel like I’m home.”

He also reiterated the importance of training exercises like Buddy Squadron and how it helps optimize the tactics that both nations can employ on the battlefield.

“The main goal of Buddy Squadron is to integrate our warfighting capability into a ROK-US combined air power,” said Cha. “We are also focusing on how to counter non-military (grey-zone) threats and how to deliver our air power to other warfighting domains.”

The tactics, techniques and procedures employed by coalition forces were tested over two mission sets: offensive counter air and XINT missions.

“The XINT mission set involves working with the ROKAF F-35s to locate, target and kill high priority ground assets that are assigned by higher headquarters,” said Boerwinkle. “The second and third mission sets are offensive counter-air, which is fighting our way into a contested battle space by eliminating any adversary air threats first, and finally, going in to drop bombs on any high priority targets for that mission.”

Buddy Squadron is regularly held at different bases around the Korean peninsula to give pilots from both countries a chance to learn with and from each other while strengthening shared tactics, techniques and procedures.

“I think this is my first time integrating with the ROKAF flying units directly and its been a great experience so far getting to know them on a personnel level and understanding where they’re coming from,” said Boerwinkle. “I think it’s valuable to be here on their base to see how they do their operations, learn from their ops and hopefully teach them a thing or two about how we do ops in the USAF.”

​The Buddy Squadron training exercises highlight the 8th FW’s commitment to ensuring that when called upon, will respond quickly and decisively to accept follow-on forces, defend the peninsula and take the fight north.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

AT SEA – Japan, the Republic of Korea, and United States began the inaugural execution of exercise Freedom Edge, a trilateral multi-domain exercise, June 27-29, 2024.

The execution of the exercise was announced at the Camp David Summit in August 2023 and at the Japan, ROK, and U.S. defense ministerial meeting, which took place in June during the Shangri-La Dialogue.

Freedom Edge expresses the will of Japan, ROK, and U.S. to promote trilateral interoperability and protect freedom for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, including the Korean Peninsula.

Multiple ships and aircraft from Japan, ROK, and the U.S., participated in the exercise to include: Japan’s JS ISE, JS ATAGO, and P-1; Republic of Korea’s ROKS Seoae-Ryu-Seong-ryong, ROKS Kang-Gam-Chan, P-3, Lynx, and KF-16; and the United States’ USS Theodore Roosevelt, USS Halsey, USS Daniel Inouye, P-8, F/A-18, E-2D, and MH-60.

The exercise will focus on cooperative Ballistic Missile Defense, Air Defense, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Search and Rescue, Maritime Interdiction, and Defensive Cyber training.

Starting with this iteration, Japan, ROK, and U.S. will continue to expand the Freedom Edge exercise.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

SOUTH KOREA  –  

Dragon Lift 2024 is being conducted this week. This biannual medical exercise is conducted by U.S. Forces Korea, Eighth Army and Republic of Korea personnel to maintain proficiency in joint patient movement operations.

Aircrews from 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, with two HH-60 Blackhawks conducted deck qualifications off the coast on a Republic of Korea Casualty Receiving and Treatment Ship, June 25, 2024.

Eighth Army units and ROK personnel will train on transporting patients to and between ground and sea-based medical facilities this week.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea  –  

U.S. Air Force and Navy personnel completed a joint, combined exchange training iteration with various Republic of Korea military counterparts on June 25, 2024, reinforcing the enduring relationship between the two nations’ special operations forces.

During the training, an AC-130J Ghostrider gunship assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Fla. conducted live-fire and dry-fire close air support and aerial interdiction training missions with U.S. and ROK ground forces.

“We have not forgotten our commitment to the Ironclad Alliance to defend our homelands—a commitment born out of the blood of our relatives more than 70 years ago,” said Brig. Gen. Derek N. Lipson, Special Operations Command Korea commander. “Since then, we’ve steadfastly maintained a deterrence posture with a credible special operations force to prevent conflict while also giving our leaders the options and knowledge that we would prevail in conflict if called upon.”

Additionally, the AC-130J and its crew participated in combined flying and weapons employment drills with the ROK Air Force, conducting the first known use of the aircraft’s Precision Strike Package to identify a training target upon which ROKAF aircraft employed live munitions. This use of AC-130J sensors to identify a target and guide munitions from a ROK aircraft demonstrates a truly integrated force posture with alignment across technical capabilities and the personnel skillsets needed to conduct such missions.

“One often overlooked advancement is our Precision Strike Package which includes upgraded electronic, optical, and infrared sensors that have enhanced target identification capabilities,” said Maj. Josh Burris, 4th Special Operations Squadron mission commander. “Simply put, if an enemy on the ground can hear us, we can see them, and we can deliver weapons faster than they have a chance to react.”

Complementing the training with the ROKAF, the AC-130J enabled routine proficiency training with U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command operators and their ROK counterparts as well as U.S. Terminal Air Control Party personnel and ROK personnel they advised. All of the training focused on how to call in close air support or aerial interdiction missions using the AC-130J’s 30mm and 105mm cannons, as well as standoff precision guided munitions. The primary ranges used were Rodriguez Live Fire Range, Pilsung Live Fire Range, and Jikdo Live Fire Range.

The joint and combined training with the AC-130J, Naval Special Warfare Command personnel, and ROK aircraft and personnel, demonstrated the ability for the ROK and U.S. to effectively conduct integrated special operations activities toward a range of possible tasks that senior leaders may require.

For imagery, please find https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/SOCKOR

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

AIRAI, Palau  –  

When United Airlines flight 192 approached Palau International Airport at 2:20 A.M. on June 12, 2024, it was cleared to land by U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Kaleb Burks, an air traffic controller with Marine Air Control Squadron 1, Marine Air Control Group 38, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

The tower at Palau International Airport isn’t typically manned by air traffic control. Pilots receive meteorological information through the airport’s Aerodrome Flight Information Service and communicate their position, altitude, and intentions on a common traffic advisory frequency.

From June 7 to 18, 2024, more than 600 U.S. joint service members participated in exercise Valiant Shield 24 at Palau International Airport and other areas on the islands of Palau, increasing aviation traffic to the airport.

A MACS-1 Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team (MMT) provided Federal Aviation Administration certified tower and ground control to Palau International Airport and the immediate airspace, an impressive radius of five nautical miles radius and up to 5,500 feet above the airport. The MMT manned the air traffic control tower at Palau International Airport 24 hours a day throughout the exercise, efficiently directing military, civilian and commercial aircraft—everything from F-22 Raptor fighter jets to Boeing 757 airliners. By the conclusion of Valiant Shield 24, the MMT directed 214 aircraft.

The MMT’s mission was planned months in advance. Marines coordinated closely with the Palau Bureau of Aviation to integrate air traffic control with the airport’s services and infrastructure.

“We’re working with and alongside the Bureau of Aviation to facilitate orderly and expeditious flow of traffic into Palau International,” said Sgt. Andrey Garbuzov, the MMT assistant team leader. “At first, we spent time here not actively controlling to ensure a smooth transition.”

MMTs are mission tailored. During Valiant Shield 24, the MMT consisted of one officer and six enlisted Marines, including a navigational aids technician and a communications technician. Garbuzov brought experience to the team as a Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One trained MMT instructor.

Originally known as the Remote Area Landing Site Team, then the Light and Mobile Team, the MMT concept was developed at MAWTS-1 on September 11, 1989, to support Marine aviation in expeditionary maneuver warfare. Today, the MMT provides initial, rapid response air traffic control and command, control, and communications in support of Marine Air-Ground Task Force, joint or combined operations.

“The MMT provides the initial push, establishing the runway or landing zone,” said 2nd Lt. John Fauntleroy, the MMT team leader. “We can sustain our operations without resupply for 72 hours.”

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Matthew Beaumont, the MMT’s navigational aids technician, is responsible for establishing the tactical air navigation system, commonly referred to as TACAN. The TACAN is a navigation system which provides military aircraft the bearing and distance to the airfield or ship where the aircraft is landing.

“In bad weather, the TACAN will tell pilots how to get to the airfield so that the controllers can give them an approach,” Beaumont says.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Aidan Donagan is the MMT’s communications technician. During Valiant Shield 24, Donogan monitored multiple radios, phones and chat servers, ensuring the MMT could simultaneously communicate with aircraft, ground crews and airfield management.

The MMT’s careful watch and direction ensured a successful exercise.

“Air traffic control is the voice that controls the chaos of a busy airfield keeping everything safe and orderly,” Garbuzov said.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

POHNPEI, Federated States of Micronesia  –  

The U.S. Coast Guard continued its support for regional and Department of Defense efforts by bringing its expertise in search and rescue, disaster response, and maritime safety and security to partners in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the week of June 3, 2024.

This support included processes education, coaching and mentoring, joint exercises, and sharing best practices by U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia Sector Guam and District 14 personnel, including Lt. Kira Adams, Ms. Dee Cruz, and Mr. George Butler.

The leadership and expertise of Lt. Kira Adams, the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia Sector Guam Joint Rescue Sub-Center chief, and Ms. Dee Cruz, emergency manager, were instrumental in this initiative. Both women have significant roles in enhancing the region’s maritime safety, security, and disaster response capabilities. Mr. Butler, a maritime emergency response and planning specialist from District 14, also brought a wealth of Incident Command System and mass rescue operations experience to the conversation.

“Our partnership with FSM’s response and maritime forces is vital for effective search and rescue operations. By joining forces, we can respond quickly and efficiently to emergencies, ensuring the safety of everyone at sea. The dedication and expertise of our teams truly make a difference, allowing us to save lives and protect our shared maritime community,” said Lt. Kira Adams.

Pacific Partnership is an annual mission led by USINDOPACOM to strengthen regional relationships and improve preparedness, response, resiliency, and security across the Indo-Pacific. As part of this mission, the U.S. Coast Guard, in partnership with INDOPACOM’s Center for Excellence in Disaster Management (CFE-DM), recently led a three-day Humanitarian And Disaster Assistance (HADR) Workshop. The workshop focused on enhancing the participants’ understanding of Mass Rescue Operations (MRO), Incident Command System (ICS)/Emergency Operation Center (EOC), and EOC fundamentals.

The workshop included:

– Search and Rescue and Mass Rescue Operations

– Incident Command System/Emergency Operation Center

– Breakout groups on EOC fundamentals, setup, staffing, activation, demobilization, and ongoing recovery efforts post-disaster.

Ms. Dee Cruz highlighted the impact of disaster response and humanitarian assistance, “In emergency management, our goal is to provide swift and effective disaster response and humanitarian assistance. Our ongoing partnership with FSM enables us to share best practices, improve readiness, and ensure we are well-prepared to respond to crises. Together, we are building a resilient and secure future for our communities.”

Since 2021, the U.S. Coast Guard has been actively engaged in various activities to support FSM, making a significant impact. These include signing an expanded shiprider agreement on behalf of the United States to combat illicit maritime activities, conducting operations to promote security and economic prosperity, organizing search and rescue exercises, enhancing maritime law enforcement education, coaching, and mentoring, supporting community engagement, and participating in port visits and subject matter exchanges. These efforts underscore the U.S. Coast Guard’s dedication to enhancing maritime safety, security, and environmental stewardship in the Pacific region through robust partnerships and collaborative efforts with FSM.

Born from the response to the 2004 tsunami in South and Southeast Asia, the Pacific Partnership has grown into the most extensive annual multinational HADR relief preparedness mission in the Indo-Pacific. Now in its 19th year, the mission enhances regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities and fosters enduring friendships, underlining the importance and relevance of the U.S. Coast Guard’s activities alongside DoD partners in the region.

For more information about U.S. Coast Guard activities, please contact CWO Sara Muir, Public Affairs Officer, at sara.g.muir@uscg.mil or uscgforcesmicronesia@gmail.com.

-USCG-

About U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam:

U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam is dedicated to safeguarding maritime interests, ensuring security, and promoting peace and prosperity in the Blue Pacific. Operations span search and rescue, law enforcement, environmental protection, and national defense. This team works closely with local, regional, and international partners to uphold maritime safety, security, and stewardship standards.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii  –  

3d Multi-Domain Task Force (3MDTF) continued to demonstrate its ability to operate in the INDOPACOM theater through its participation, experimentation, and innovation in Valiant Shield 24. 3MDTF deployed teams of soldiers across the Pacific while executing distributed command and control and employing emerging concepts and capabilities partnered with Department of Defense agencies and commercial industry.

Teams operating out of Japan, Guam, and Palau integrated extended range sensing, long range communication, effects, and fires to contribute to accomplishing training objectives.

In Guam, 3MDTF soldiers, partnering with the Research and Experimentation branch of the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense (OUSD) and Aerostar Industries, launched high altitude balloons (HABs) from Won Pat International Airport. Once launched, the HABs rapidly ascended above 50,000 feet and began operating around the Marianas Islands. Equipped with electromagnetic sensing and mesh communications equipment, the HABs helped inform future maritime domain awareness innovation and experimentation.

While HABs floated at high altitude, Platform Aerospace, partnering with OUSD (R&E) and 3MDTF, launched the Vanilla Ultra-Long Endurance Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Vanilla holds the world record for continuous, un-refueled flight of a combustion engine aircraft (>8 days). Vanilla can be configured for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), and Persistent Communications.

For Valiant Shield 24, Vanilla performed as a communication relay, operating effectively during a 27-hour flight. Vanilla’s launch and flight, including multiple hours of flight during a violent storm, validated operational use of an Ultra-Long Endurance UAS capable of multi-day, multi-mission configurations.

Vanilla is an OUSD Rapid Defense Experimentation Reserve (RDER) Program; Valiant Shield 24 was Vanilla’s graduation event and formal Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 8 assessment.

In Palau, hundreds of miles away, soldiers from 3MDTF and 1-181 Artillery Regiment of the Tennessee National Guard participated in the VS24 Combined Joint Live Fire SINKEX on June 16, 2024, utilizing the U.S. Army Autonomous Multi-Domain Launcher (AML) and two Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM). During the SINKEX, the AML was able to engage a moving maritime target in conjunction with other Joint assets. The VS24 SINKEX is the first employment of both the AML and the PrSM outside of the U.S and is a significant milestone in the Army’s development of long-range fires capabilities.

The prototype launcher will be capable of convoy operations, autonomous way point navigation, tele-operation, and remote launcher turret and fire control operation.

PrSM is the Army’s next-generation Long Range Precision Fires weapon and is capable of neutralizing targets at standoffs greater than 400 kilometers.

To bring together the soldiers and capabilities spread thousands of miles throughout the Pacific, the 3MDTF All-Domain Operations Center (ADOC) on Oahu, and a Battalion command post in Japan were established. These operations centers provided the hub for synchronized planning and execution during the exercise.

VS24 provides 3MDTF an invaluable ability to train alongside partners and allies. Col. Michael Rose, the 3MDTF Commander commented, “Valiant Shield enabled us to integrate with the Combined Joint Force and operate distributed while forward in theater. We were able to build new relationships and continue to deepen existing ties. Valiant Shield and like exercises in the region enables us to test our systems and processes as well as integrate new capabilities alongside our partners and allies, contributing to the continuous transformation of our multi-domain capability and increasing our warfighting readiness.”

​VS24 is a multinational, biennial field training exercise focused on integrating interoperability training in a multi-domain environment. This training builds real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces through detecting, locating, tracking, and engaging units at sea, in the air, in space, on land, and in cyberspace in response to a range of mission areas. VS24 is the 10th iteration of the Valiant Shield exercise which first began in 2006.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

PELELIU, Palau   –  

For the first time since its recertification in June, a military fixed-wing aircraft has touched down on the historic Peleliu airstrip, marking a significant and triumphant return to this iconic World War II site, on June 22, 2024. This landmark event was made possible by the tireless efforts of the Marine Corps Engineer Detachment Palau (MCED-P) 24.1, comprised of engineers from the 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group.

The MCED-P has been diligently rehabilitating the WWII-era Japanese airfield on Peleliu, a mission critical to enhancing U.S. military strategic capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The successful landing marks the culmination of months of dedicated work by the Marine engineers.

The runway was named in honor of Eugene Sledge, a private first class with the 1st Marine Division during the Battle of Peleliu and author of the well-known book “With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa,” which provides a vivid account of the historic battle and used by many to explain what happened during the historic battle.

“Today is a historic moment as we land a Marine Corps aircraft on the ‘Sledge’ runway,” remarked Maj. Christopher Romero, MCED-P 24.1 commanding officer. “This remarkable achievement demonstrates the strategic importance of our mission and our dedication to regional stability and security.”

Local leaders and community members, including Peleliu Governor Emais Roberts, attended the event, underscoring its significance for the island. “The landing of the C-130 on the resurfaced runway after many years hopefully begins a new chapter for a prosperous future of Peleliu island,” remarked Governor Roberts. “On behalf of the Peleliu citizens, I thank the U.S. Department of Defense with U.S. Marines for making this long-awaited joint use airfield become a reality. Our small island community has benefitted immensely with the U.S. Marine presence. We value the great partnership, and we feel safe and protected with the support of the greatest country in this world.”

“I feel privileged because I was in Peleliu in 2021 and saw the airfield transform into what it is now,” says Sgt. Brandon Gonzalez, a MCED-P 24.1 combat engineer squad leader who led vegetation removal and assisted with unexploded ordinance sweeping. “It truly is an honor to have been a part of this mission and see it come to fruition with a KC-130 landing.”

The restored Peleliu airstrip stands as a testament to the resilience and innovation of Marine Corps engineers. It bridges the past and the future, honoring WWII sacrifices while enhancing regional security and cooperation.

The successful landing is particularly poignant as the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Peleliu approaches in September. To commemorate this historic occasion, Combat Logistics Battalion 13, another battalion within 1st MLG, will be enhancing the Peleliu Civic Center Museum. This project aims to provide a new home for historic artifacts, ensuring the legacy of those who fought in the Battle of Peleliu is honored and remembered.

As MCED-P 24.1’s rotation draws to a close, Maj. Romero extended his gratitude to Governor Roberts and the Peleliu community. “Thank you for taking care of the Marines and Sailors of the MCED mission. Your contributions have been key to our success. The ‘Stray Dogs’ feel right at home here in Peleliu.”

The nickname “Stray Dogs” comes from the numerous stray dogs found in Peleliu, cherished and nourished by the community. This name reflects the locals’ hospitality and the bond formed with the Marines and Sailors of MCED-P.

​As the rehabilitation project continues, this successful landing represents a significant step forward in strengthening regional infrastructure. The engineers of MCED-P remain committed to their mission, ready to tackle challenges and contribute to ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

WASHINGTON, D.C.   –  

On June 21, 2023, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) launched the India-U.S. Defense Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) during Prime Minister Modi’s official state visit to Washington, D.C. In its first year, INDUS-X has advanced both countries’ commitment to build a defense innovation bridge under the initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET).

INDUS-X has strengthened private sector cooperation between the United States and India by facilitating partnerships among defense technology companies, investors, and researchers. The White House recently announced that the third INDUS-X Summit will take place in Silicon Valley in September 2024 with a focus on harnessing private capital for defense innovation. The summit will be co-hosted by the U.S. India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and Stanford University.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

MANILA, Philippines  –  

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) Surgeon Office and the Armed Forces of the Philippines—Health Service Command (AFP-HSC), held the first blood program subject matter exchange between the U.S. military and the Philippines from May 13-15 in Manila.

The three-day exchange focused on enhancing blood programs and forging stronger ties with critical Philippine medical organizations by sharing best practices, evaluating challenges and exploring opportunities for collaboration in blood programs and transfusion medicine. By leveraging collective expertise and resources, the goal of the program is to enhance capabilities to better provide safe and adequate blood products to service members, their families and local communities.

The initiative was led by Lt. Cmdr. Akakpossa Ananou, the USINDOPACOM Joint Blood Program Officer, and included U.S. service members: U.S. Army MAJ Nekkeya Glover, the 18th Medical Command blood consultant; U.S. Army MAJ Sarah Matthews, U.S. Forces Korea Area Joint Blood Program Officer; and U.S. Navy Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Joseph, the Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group Liaison Officer.

It was coordinated with Philippine Army Maj. Jennifer Mateo, who heads the pathology and laboratory department at the Victoriano Luna Medical Center (VLMC) in Manila, and brought together the AFP-HSC, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Health Service Command, and the San Lazaro Hospital.

Maj. Mateo said the event was “a transformative journey towards achieving a common goal – blood interoperability and sustainability.”

Over 36 participants delved into various aspects of blood program management, including donor recruitment, blood collection, testing, storage and distribution. The open dialogue facilitated a transfer of ideas, allowing both sides to learn from each other’s experiences and pave the way for future cooperation.

The team also conducted engagements with key Philippine leaders, including Brig. Gen. Fatima Navarro, the AFP Surgeon General, Police Brig. General Jezebel Medina, the PNP Health Service Director, Col. Jonna Dalaguit, Chief of VLMC, Dr. Iftizar Haron and Dr. Dinarazad Miranda from the San Lazaro Hospital. These high-level discussions focused on strategic priorities, resource allocation and developing robust blood programs to enhance operational readiness and save lives during emergencies and contingencies.

​The initiative represents a significant step toward ensuring blood product availability in the Indo-Pacific region for humanitarian and disaster relief, and underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering closer collaboration in blood planning and management.