Category: US Indo Pacific Command

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

HONIARA, Solomon Islands  –  

The 1984th U.S. Army Hospital Pacific (USAH-P), a brigade of the 9th Mission Support Command, continued their Global Healthcare Engagement (GHE) in Solomon Islands, for two weeks in August of 2024. The teams were spread out across the provinces around the island nation with particular focus on Auki, Honiara, Gizo, and Munda. In Munda, a small community on the island of New Georgia, the team’s centerpiece was the introduction of a new ultrasound machine, and Lt. Col. Richard Teames, the officer in charge (OIC) of the Operating Room and Anesthesia Section for the 394th Forward Surgical Team, played a pivotal role in this endeavor.

As an expert in ultrasound technology and a consultant for the manufacturer of the machine (Fujifilm), Teames – who is, a physician anesthesiologist from Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas — shared his experiences setting up the equipment, working with the local healthcare teams and the profound impact of the mission on the local healthcare system.

“When we arrived in Munda, Dr. Ray mentioned that a brand-new ultrasound machine had been delivered just three days prior,” Teames explained. “It came in large wooden crates from Japan, and we assisted the local healthcare professionals in setting up the ultrasound.”

Over several days, Teames and his team worked with local doctors and specialists on various aspects of the ultrasound machine, including scanning techniques, probe use, and image management. It wasn’t long before the machine would be needed for immediate use. Shortly after its assembly, a local professional called for the use of the ultrasound to assess a critically ill premature infant.

“We used the ultrasound to identify a large amount of free air in the baby’s belly, indicating a perforation in the intestinal tract,” Teames recalled. “The ability to make such swift decisions with the new ultrasound was crucial.”

The quick diagnosis enabled the timely transfer of the infant to the National Referral Hospital in Honiara, where she received appropriate care. In another instance, the ultrasound was used to perform nerve blocks for a patient with severe diabetic infection.

“We worked with the local doctors on using the ultrasound for nerve blocks, which allowed us to perform a toe amputation with effective anesthesia and without additional sedation,” Teames noted. “The nerve block provided 22 hours of pain relief post-operation.”

Teames highlighted the immense benefit of such medical equipment to communities like Munda.

“The real challenge isn’t just having advanced equipment but knowing how to use it effectively,” Teams explained. “The ultrasound’s impact on Munda’s healthcare capabilities is profound, and ongoing use and training is crucial for maximizing its potential.”

Reflecting on his experience, Teames was deeply moved by the local community.

“The people of Munda make the most of limited resources, which teaches us to be more frugal and grateful for what we have,” Teames said. , “The relationship building with the people of Solomon Islands is invaluable. They greatly appreciate our efforts, and our presence made a noticeable impact. Sustaining these medical missions and working alongside their medical professionals should be a priority for the Department of Defense.”

The mission to Munda underscores the importance of essential medical equipment but also exposure to said equipment in order to improve efficiency in a given medical community. The collaboration and support from missions like these contribute significantly to improving healthcare outcomes in underserved regions.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

CARSON CITY, Nevada  –  

The Nevada National Guard completed its first State Partnership Program (SPP) exchange mission with its newest partner nation, Samoa, last week. This exchange, a medical engagement, focused on best practices between the Nevada National Guard, Samoan Fire and Emergency Services Authority (SFESA), and the U.S. Army Reserve’s 1984th United States Army Hospital Detachment.

Topics related to pre-hospital support across a variety of scenarios and subsequent injuries. The first day focused on pre-hospital trauma life support, including collaborative instruction on airways, breathing, circulation, and ventilation. Day two consisted of trauma-life support involving brain injuries, including hemorrhaging and shock. The final day saw the continuation of pre-hospital care and disability considerations. Day three also highlighted the importance of making a secondary assessment and running through simulations.

“The entire exchange was a great success,” said Staff Sgt. Mason Burkhart, Nevada Army National Guard flight paramedic.

Burkhart was among three of the 2-238th GSAB flight paramedics Nevada sent to Samoa for the SPP exchange. The 1984th United States Hospital Detachment previously worked with SFESA for six months on a variety of medical engagements. Collaboration between the Nevada Guard, U.S. Army Reserve, and SFESA better prepared Samoa for their upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), Burkhart said. The biennial summit meeting of the governmental leaders from all Commonwealth nations is scheduled for Oct. 21-25.

“Samoa is one of the best in the world when it comes to providing quality trauma treatment with limited resources,” Burkhart said. “Utilizing their expertise directly translates to providing treatment in an austere combat environment.”

“The arrival of the Nevada National Guard brought unique perspective and experience to the conversation, expanding upon the work already done between the U.S. Army Reserve and SFESA”, said Maj. Dustin Petersen, Nevada National Guard State Partner Program director. “This is the 3rd time I have had the honor to work with the Samoans and I am extremely excited to see how much progress we have made together. I cannot stress enough how beneficial this program is. We can learn so much from the people of Samoa. The Tenacity and desire for self-improvement of the Samoans never ceases to impress me. This program has limitless potential, and I am very excited to see where it leads in the future.”

Samoa (known as “Western Samoa” until 1997) is an archipelago consisting of two main islands, Upolu and Savai’i, and seven smaller islands. It has about 200,000 people, with roughly 75 percent of them residing in the capital city of Apia.

Each partnership works through mutually beneficial exchanges between nations and state National Guards. Given that Samoa does not have a state military force, engagements in Samoa focus on a whole-of-government approach incorporating outside military state agencies, Petersen said.

The SPP began in 1993 with 13 partners following the end of the Cold War. Thirty-one years later, it includes 92 partnerships with 106 nations and is a key U.S. security cooperation tool that facilitates collaboration across all aspects of civil-military affairs.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

SOUTH KOREA  –  

For many, September 11 is a day of deep reflection for one of the most horrific acts of terrorism in American history. However, this day takes on an additional importance for those who have served in the military or as first responders. It was the day that America united with an enhanced patriotic spirit to selflessly defend the ideals that govern the foundation of the Constitution.

On this solemn morning, the Wolf Pack and local community members gathered during Kunsan’s 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, Sept. 11, 2024, to remember the victims of the 9/11 attacks and to honor the sacrifices of those who responded to the tragedy on that fateful day.

“The Wolf Pack is here today to serve as the guardians of freedom. The sacrifices made on that day will never be forgotten,” said Col. Peter Kasarskis, 8th Fighter Wing commander.

As the ceremony began, an honor guard, composed of first responders from the 8th Fighter Wing, marched in formation to present the colors as the crowd stood at attention for the playing of the national anthem.

The guest speakers for the ceremony were Lt. Col. Phil Compton, 8th Civil Engineer Squadron commander, and Senior Master Sgt. Derek White, 8th CES Fire & Emergency Services fire chief. Both shared their personal stories of how the events of 9/11 impacted their lives and gave them a renewed purpose to serve.

“As emergency responders, we have the opportunity to not only be first on the scene but also first to fair freedom and justice,” said White. “Today we gather to honor the victims, including the 445 firefighters, police officers, and medical technicians who gave their lives that day.”

Compton, being from a family of first responders himself, spoke of the bravery and selflessness of those who rushed into danger to save others. His words resonated with the crowd, many of whom had been personally affected by the events of 9/11.

“My father wore a beret and served 30 years as a civilian police officer and my mother still serves as a wildland firefighter,” said Compton. “They understood, just like those on that day and the people in this audience, that no matter the risks, somebody must step in if we want to protect and preserve the peace and safety of our world.”

During Compton’s speech, the roar of the base’s aircraft could be heard taking off into the sky, causing him to pause. The loud engines served as a reminder that the 8th FW continues to guard the peace and security of the defenseless and protect the values that make America a global leader.

“What those awful men couldn’t comprehend, understand, or predict was that their actions and violence wouldn’t terrorize us… we wouldn’t be scared,” Compton said. “Instead, it would galvanize a new generation of service-minded heroes. We would make sure that days like 9/11 would never happen again. Sept. 11, 2001, was the lightning and we are the thunderclap that followed.”

Following the guest speakers, several first responders gathered on stage to lead a moment of silence and ring a ceremonial bell several times to signify the end of watch for the fallen heroes. The crowd stood in silent reverence as “Taps” echoed through the field, a haunting reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served and continue to serve.

The ceremony concluded with a missing man formation flyover of F-16 Fighting Falcons. The flyover was a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of freedom that defines our nation and a tribute to the heroes who have given their lives in its defense.

“The Wolf Pack stands ready, said Kasarskis. “Every member of the 8th FW serves and prepares diligently so that we will never again be blindsided by such malicious attacks.”

Throughout the day, several other events were held in remembrance of 9/11, including a ruck march and a stair climb event devoted to the firefighters who climbed the World Trade Center.

“Today we honor those who have served before us, give praise to those who currently serve with us, and share our traditions with those who will take our place after we serve our time,” said White. “We will never forget the 2,977 victims who perished that day and we will never run nor step aside when facing the risk of paying the ultimate sacrifice. On that day we were all first responders.”

The Wolf Pack continues to reflect on the events of that day and honor those who were lost while also celebrating the resilience and strength of spirit that the American people demonstrate daily.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

JODHPUR AIR FORCE STATION, RAJASTHAN, India  –  

 An aircraft piloted by forest green suited aviators fueled its legacy of fierceness and fire – we call it the A-10 Thunderbolt II. They are recognized for their unique mission; providing close air support to those on the ground, which emboldens a shared iconic mindset for those a part of the 25th Fighter Squadron and 25th Fighter Generation Squadron.

These values of integrity, service, and excellence flourish amidst the Tarang Shakti 24 exercise, which is led by the Indian Air Force, and includes 28 international partners like the 25th FS and 25th FGS.

This is the first iteration of Tarang Shakti, allowing the squadron the opportunity to share and learn from various partners at Jodhpur Air Force Station, India.

“This exercise is unique, in that we get an opportunity to train with the Indian Air Force, and other participating nation’s aircraft, like the Su-30, Rafale, Mirage 2000, and others,” said Lt. Col. Justin Davis, 25th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron Commander and Deployed Forces Commander in India. “Very few Air Force pilots get the chance to fly alongside these particular types of aircraft or the pilots that fly them, so this training we do here is very rewarding and the partnership we’re building with other squadrons from multiple nations is very valuable.”

During the exercise, Davis took flight with Group Capt. Uttar Kumar, IAF 4th Squadron commanding officer, sharing the skies and their excitement for Tarang Shakti.

“We share a rich history between both the 25th FS and the 4th Squadron by the year of their birth,” said Kumar, responsible for the 4th Squadron, which remains the oldest squadron in the IAF. “Our compatibility of practice, thought process and aerospace safety concerns are similar and shows, going forward, that our Air Forces not just IAF or U.S. but all Air Forces in this exercise can learn a lot from each other to enhance our capabilities.”

The A-10’s virtues are embodied by those who maintain and fly the iconic aircraft; building upon their experiences alongside Allies from the perspective of the A-10.

“My dad would tell me stories of being protected by the A-10 while under fire, during his service in the Marine Corps.,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Colby Jansen, 25th FGS avionics technician. He expressed his joy in sharing his experiences with IAF members, while creating memorable stories of his own while in India.

The 25th FS and 25th FGS, affectionately named the Assam Draggins, know that the connections built here are ones that the crews behind the aircraft can carry forward in their Air Force career and into their unit’s culture.

The A-10’s memorable twin turbo engines support the aircraft in taking flight. Similarly, the 25th FS and 25th FGS support each other, and help improve the unyielding strategic partnership with the IAF; fueling one another’s resolve for regional security and stability.

“Our pilots bring an experience and dedication to close air support and ground attack that is unmatched,” said Davis. “Likewise, other units from other nations bring unique capabilities and their own experience and dedication to their specialty mission. We learn from each other, make each other better and build a stronger relationship in the process.”

The effects of the A-10’s participation in this exercise will Tarang, “meaning to ripple”. The aircrew and pilots resolution to TS24 Phase II will ripple to various career fields and flying concepts, fortifying the purpose of which the A-10 has served; to deter and defend for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

VIETNAM  –  

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam have forged a strong collaborative relationship over the decades to account for personnel missing from the Vietnam War. Since 1973, their joint efforts have led to the identification and dignified burial of thousands of personnel. Each year, multiple investigations are conducted in Vietnam to collect evidence, investigate leads, and conduct excavations. The excavations are usually conducted by recovery teams (RTs), which are led by a U.S. military senior noncommissioned officer or a commissioned officer. However, in some instances, the RTs are led by Vietnamese officials, which are called Vietnamese recovery teams or VRTs.

Socialist Republic of Vietnam Col. Huy D. Nguyen, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam, was appointed by the Vietnam Office for Seeking Missing Persons (VNOSMP) board of directors to be the VRT’s team leader for a recovery mission ranging from July to September 2024. As team leader, it was his responsibility to coordinate with local authorities and set up the infrastructure at the recovery site, including site clearance, worker preparation, and lodging for team members. Nguyen’s goal was to keep team members on both sides in good spirits and promote a sense of rapport. “Two teams as one,” he said, was his mantra for the mission. Nguyen had been part of 10 missions with DPAA, but this was his first time as a team leader. However, to Nguyen, every mission, just like his current one, presents its own obstacles to overcome.

“The main challenge has to be the sheer amount of prep work that had to be done for the two sites in one single mission, as well as other logistical issues and moving parts during the beginning of the mission” he said. “But it is with incredible efforts, resilience, and cooperation on both sides the teams were able to eventually settle down, get things in order and achieve meaningful on- field results.”

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Nicole McMinamin, the U.S. team leader for this VRT, served as an intermediary between the U.S. team members and the Vietnamese. Of the 15 missions she has been on, this was her first VRT. She noticed significant differences between a VRT and a regular RT.

“I have found that the VNOSMP are force multipliers in terms of preparing the area for site operations, advising the team on local food and cultural customs, and coordinating efforts to help with the assistance and management of the local workforce,” McMinamin said. “They have really taken care of the team, from providing meals and coordinating hotel stays. The procurement of the local workforce is a huge part of what the VNOSMP bring to the table, the extra manning is what makes these recovery missions possible in the limited time we have.”

VRTs are special as they allow host nations to ease recovery teams into favorable positions for efficient and expedient mission operations, since half the battle is knowing the landscape and the local force. They also foster camaraderie between the two nations, who feel it is an honor to be a part of such a solemn mission, as Nguyen does.

“To me personally, being able to take part in these humanitarian missions has always been an honor and privilege,” Nguyen said. “It is my hope that positive results will come with all the hard work from everyone involved. In my capacity as team leader, I will contribute to the best of my abilities towards this goal.”

Cooperation between nations is what makes these recovery missions possible. McMinamin shared this sentiment alongside her deep appreciation for the VNOSMP and Col. Nguyen’s contributions to the agency’s mission.

“I think the relationship between the U.S. and Vietnamese is so important because without their help and assistance of individuals like Col. Nguyen, our mission would not continue in Vietnam and a lot of families would not get the closure by having their loved ones returned to them,” McMinamin said.

In the end, the success of these recovery missions hinges on the unwavering cooperation between nations and the dedication of individuals like Nguyen and McMinamin. Their collective efforts not only bring closure to families but also underscore the profound impact of international collaboration in addressing humanitarian needs. As the teams continue their work, the spirit of unity and mutual respect remains a testament to their shared commitment to honoring and recovering the memories of those who served. The legacy of their mission is a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between the U.S. and Vietnam, and the commitment to never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) participated in the third India-U.S. Defense Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) Summit in Silicon Valley, California on Monday, September 9. The summit was co-hosted by the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and Stanford University. The INDUS-X initiative continues to vitalize U.S.-India defense industrial cooperation and produce new innovations in technology and manufacturing by facilitating partnerships among defense technology innovators, investors, and researchers.

Speakers at the INDUS-X Summit explored opportunities to co-produce advanced military capabilities, create new funding streams for defense technology development and resilient defense supply chains, and enhance U.S.-India military interoperability in support of both countries’ shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and U.S. SPACECOM Commander General Stephen Whiting delivered keynote remarks at the INDUS-X Summit, providing insights and perspectives on the future of defense cooperation between the United States and India.

The summit featured the signing of an upgraded Memorandum of Understanding between the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and the Indian Ministry of Defense’s Defense Innovation Organization (DIO) and the release of a new official INDUS-X webpage. The Memorandum of Understanding demonstrates a shared commitment to expanding cooperation on defense innovation between DIU and DIO to expand their respective militaries’ access to cutting-edge technologies through non-traditional processes. The INDUS-X webpage is a resource for investors and startups to learn about the program, its goals, and partnership opportunities. It features a directory of participating companies and upcoming events.

At the summit, U.S. and Indian companies, universities, and nonprofit organizations discussed new technology testing and experimentation opportunities available to companies through INDUSWERX, a testing consortium led by private-sector organizations. The consortium will continue exploring pathways for defense and dual-use companies in the INDUS-X network to test, refine, and integrate their technologies at premier testing ranges across the United States and India.

The summit also convened meetings of the INDUS-X Senior Advisory Group and Senior Leaders Forum, the two advisory forums under INDUS-X that enable DoD and Indian MoD senior leaders to engage stakeholders on new initiatives and advance progress on current activities under INDUS-X.

The DoD released an INDUS-X Fact Sheet in February 2024 to outline accomplishments and priority near-term efforts under the INDUS-X initiative.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

Republic of Korea (ROK) Deputy Minister for National Defense Policy Cho Chang-rae, U.S. Acting Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Cara Abercrombie, and Japan Director General for Defense Policy YAMATO Taro convened the 15th Defense Trilateral Talks in Seoul on September 10, 2024. They discussed shared regional security concerns and renewed their commitment to strengthening trilateral security cooperation following the Japan-ROK-U.S. Summits at Phnom Penh and Camp David and Trilateral Ministerial Meetings in Singapore and Tokyo this year.

The three defense officials acknowledged the progress made by the national defense authorities of the three countries over the past year since the historic Camp David Summit, and pledged to continue working closely together to strengthen trilateral security cooperation.

The three sides shared their views that the Memorandum of Cooperation on the Trilateral Security Cooperation Framework (TSCF), signed by the Ministers and the Secretary of the three countries in July, institutionalizes progress made in the relationship thus far and will serve as a foundation to pursue trilateral security cooperation in a systematic and stable manner.

The three defense officials highlighted the successful efforts of their three countries in systematically conducting trilateral exercises in accordance with the multi-year trilateral exercise plan approved last year. They pledged to continue seeking various opportunities for future trilateral exercises and committed to updating the multi-year trilateral exercise plan by the end of this year.

The officials acknowledged that the first execution of the multi-domain trilateral exercise FREEDOM EDGE in June contributed to enhancing interoperability among the three countries and safeguarding freedom, peace, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Korean Peninsula. They also concurred to conduct the second FREEDOM EDGE exercise in the near term.

The three sides reaffirmed their enduring commitment to strengthening trilateral cooperation to contribute to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, in the Indo-Pacific region, and beyond, including by deterring the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) advancing nuclear and missile threats.

They expressed grave concern over the increasing military cooperation commitment between the Russian Federation and the DPRK, as highlighted by the signing of the “Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” which is contrary to multiple UN Security Council resolutions and is a concerning development for many countries in the region. The three defense officials pledged to strengthen cooperation with the international community to fulfill the implementation of the related UN Security Council resolutions.

In addition, they condemned the DPRK’s recent diversification of nuclear delivery systems, tests and launches of multiple ballistic missiles, and other related activities, and urged the DPRK to immediately cease all actions that destabilize security of the Korean Peninsula and the region.

The United States reaffirmed its ironclad commitment to the defense of the ROK and Japan, emphasizing that this commitment is backed by the full range of U.S. capabilities, including nuclear capabilities.

All three sides reaffirmed strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion in the region.

The three defense officials shared assessments on recent maritime and air military activities in the Indo-Pacific region, including the South China Sea. They also recalled their respective positions regarding the dangerous and aggressive behavior by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) supporting unlawful maritime claims in the area. Furthermore, they shared concerns about actions that are inconsistent with international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and stressed the importance of fully respecting freedom of navigation and overflight.

The three sides recognized that there is no change in their basic positions on Taiwan and emphasized the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element of security and prosperity in the international community. They called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.

The three officials welcomed holding the 16th Defense Trilateral Talks in the first half of next year in Japan.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

HMAS STIRLING, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, AUSTRALIA  –  

(This story was edited to correct a previous version of a quote.)

USS Hawaii (SSN 776) departed HMAS Stirling today, marking the conclusion of a historic submarine maintenance period in Western Australia. As part of the Australia, United Kingdom, United States (AUKUS) Pillar 1 effort, Royal Australian Navy personnel assigned to submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) worked alongside their U.S. Navy counterparts to make repairs on the U.S. Virginia-class SSN in Australia during a multi-week Submarine Tendered Maintenance Period, or STMP.

“This is the first time since World War II that the U.S. has conducted submarine maintenance in Australian waters, and certainly the first instance in history of a joint American-Australian team performing maintenance on a nuclear-powered attack submarine,” said Rear Adm. Lincoln Reifsteck, U.S. Navy AUKUS Integration and Acquisition program manager. “The importance of this event cannot be overstated. These last few weeks provided essential maintenance and stewardship experience for our Australian partners in advance of establishing a sovereign SSN force in Australia.”

The STMP represents a significant step toward achieving the AUKUS Pillar 1 objective of delivering a sovereign, conventionally armed, nuclear-powered attack submarine capability to Australia. During the STMP, the crew of Emory S. Land and Hawaii performed routine and emergent maintenance and conducted training that included diving operations to inspect the torpedo tube muzzle doors, towed array system, and the simulated movement of a large pump weighing more than 3,500 pounds from within the boat. Royal Navy Sailors observed the STMP maintenance events to integrate learning opportunities for future U.K. SSN port visits to Western Australia.

The maintenance period also featured nuclear stewardship exercises, as well as firefighting exercises and drills. These training evolutions allowed Australian radiological controls policy makers to observe how the U.S. Navy safely handles simulated low-level radiological material as a means to increase their knowledge and enhance their understanding of radiological stewardship.

“Successfully completing the STMP means the Royal Australian Navy has taken a major step forward in our ability to maintain and sustain SSNs,” said Rear Adm. Matt Buckley, Head of Nuclear Submarine Capability within the Australian Submarine Agency. “For the first time, Australian personnel undertook maintenance on a conventionally armed, nuclear-powered attack submarine in our own waters. As we continue to conduct more frequent SSN visits to HMAS Stirling the amount of work conducted by Australians will grow as we build our sovereign capabilities.”

“Each SSN visit to HMAS Stirling has a set of goals and objectives, with each one designed to demonstrate increasing capabilities and stewardship,” said Rear Adm. Chris Shepherd, the U.K.’s Defence Nuclear Organisation AUKUS Director and Senior Responsible Owner for the Replacement Nuclear Submarine Programme. “The STMP demonstrated the synergy we have within the trilateral partners and sets us up for future port visits.”

AUKUS is a strategic partnership that will promote a safe, free, and open Indo-Pacific, enhance national security, and uplift the industrial bases of the three nations. AUKUS Pillar 1 is assisting Australia in acquiring a sovereign conventionally armed SSN capability by the early 2030s. The AUKUS I&A Program Office is responsible for executing the trilateral partnership to assist Australia in acquiring conventionally armed, nuclear-powered attack submarines at the earliest possible date, while setting the highest nuclear stewardship standards and continuing to maintain the highest non-proliferation standard

To read more about AUKUS, view the fact sheet at the following link: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/03/13/fact-sheet-trilateral-australia-uk-us-partnership-on-nuclear-powered-submarines/.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Public Affairs provided the following readout:

The commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Adm. Samuel Paparo, held a video teleconference with Gen. Wu Yanan, the commander of the People’s Liberation Army’s Southern Theater Command, Sept. 9.

The call was a deliverable from the bilateral meeting between President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China, held Nov. 2023, at which both leaders agreed to resume high-level military-to-military communication between the Department of Defense and the PLA, and to hold conversations between the USINDOPACOM commander and the PLA’s theater commanders.

During the call, Paparo underscored the importance of sustained lines of communication between the U.S. military and the PLA, noting that such discussions between senior leaders serve to clarify intent and reduce the risk of misperception or miscalculation. 

Citing several recent PLA unsafe interactions with U.S. allies, Paparo reinforced the PLA’s obligation to comply with international laws and norms to ensure operational safety. Paparo also urged the PLA to reconsider its use of dangerous, coercive, and potentially escalatory tactics in the South China Sea and beyond. Gen. Wu and Paparo had a constructive and respectful exchange of views between experienced professionals.

Paparo expressed hope that this discussion with his PLA counterpart would be the first of many such conversations and noted the necessity of continued dialogue on issues of concern with Gen. Wu, as well as with counterparts in other PLA theater commands.  

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

LAEM CHABANG, Thailand  –  

Eight members of the Washington National Guard recently visited the Port of Laem Chabang in what has become the longest running exchange in the 22-year relationship between Washington and the Kingdom of Thailand.

From August 16-27, the team took part in a multi-facet subject matter exchange with port personnel. This year’s exchange had a list of goals, to include the introduction and evaluation of cyber threats and security, review incident command synchronization basics, improve first response and medical response during a mass casualty exercise, review and practice decontamination procedures, and setting up a command center during an integrated multi-department response to multiple hazards and casualties.

“The purpose of this exchange was achieved in full,” said Capt. Matthew Carey, a medical officer and lead for the exchange.

The Port of Laem Chabang is a deep-water port located on the Gulf of Thailand. It is critical to trade both in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Northwest. One of the busiest ports in Asia, much of the cargo from the port makes its entrance into the United States through the Port of Tacoma. Since 2005, Guardsmen have traveled from Seattle to Pattaya, Thailand to take part in a multi-day exchange with the port that includes security, Incident Command Systems (ICS), hazardous materials and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear explosive preparation and response, medical, and crisis communication.

“There is significant strategic value to our partner Port’s ability to quickly respond to hazards and accidents, mitigating economic and operational impact. As the only deep water Port in Thailand, there is significant secondary and tertiary effects when operations are interrupted,” said Carey. “This was the first time cyber classes and assessments were provided. There have been recent cyber ransom attacks at the terminals within the Port which emphasized the importance of cyber security.”

With an increase in both criminal and state sponsored cyber threats, it is imperative to the Port operations that potential threats and vulnerabilities are addressed. The Washington National Guard has focused a number of exchanges in the past few years on cyber security.

“Integration of cyber into each subject matter expert exchange moving forward would be helpful. As cyber specific classes do not take up the majority of the class time,” said Carey. “We need to continue identifying cyber integration with effects and expected response for next missions.”

This year’s exchange also focused on continuing to share best practices in preparing for emergency response in a port environment. The exchange was fortunate to have a number of experts that utilized their civilian career backgrounds in fire departments, the 10th Civil Support Team, medical field and incident command.

“The technical nature of the material that is often taught requires deliberate inclusion of subject matter experts,” said Carey.

Carey also believes the value of the exchange can be raised with the inclusion of visits to the Pacific Northwest by Port leadership.

“We should look at the Port leadership coming here and getting a sense of how we do ICS and react to hazards,” said Carey.

The next exchange is scheduled for Spring of 2025 at the Port of Laem Chabang.