Category: US Indo Pacific Command

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska  –  

 In a rare deployment to Alaska’s airspace, two B-52 Stratofortresses from Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, recently took part in the Arctic Defender exercise at JBER marking a significant milestone in military cooperation and readiness.

U.S. Air Force Capts. David Mills and Shinryu Aoyama, both from Minot’s 69th Bomb Squadron, shared insights into their experience during the mission.

“It’s not every day that a B-52 comes up to Alaska airspace and takes part in an exercise,” said Mills, highlighting the unique nature of the deployment.

Despite challenging weather conditions, which included rain and dreariness, the crew found the opportunity valuable for training and operational readiness.

Mills, serving as a B-52 flight lead and instructor pilot, along with Aoyama, a B-52 co-pilot, emphasized the exercise’s importance in refining their operational capabilities, especially given ongoing runway repairs at Minot.

The B-52 crews used Arctic Defender to integrate large-force employment into Exercise Agile Warbird, a Minot AFB Agile Combat Employment exercise.

“The B-52 was part of the strike package for the Arctic Defender [sortie] on [July 16],” explained Aoyama. Their ACE exercise focused on enhancing operational agility and effectiveness in challenging environments.

The planning and execution of the ACE exercise involved meticulous coordination with various units and personnel in order to effectively launch from Spokane, Washington, to join U.S. and Allied forces in the Joint Pacific-Alaska Range Complex.

“We had to coordinate with folks like the aircraft maintenance squadrons and aerospace ground equipment to ensure we had everything needed to operate from a forward operating base,” Mills elaborated.

Moreover, the integration with allied forces added another layer of complexity and learning. Aoyama highlighted the experience of working alongside German tactical air command and coalition nation fighters, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts in a multinational context.

“One of the key takeaways from this exercise was the seamless integration and operational synergy with our allies,” said Mills. “It’s crucial for the bomber community to foster collaboration, particularly as we prepare for high-end scenarios in the Pacific region.”

The crew also faced logistical challenges typical of such exercises, including adapting to dynamic mission changes and coordinating real-time data updates while in flight.

“It’s challenging to get all the data you need to employ when the mission planning cell is planning the [sortie] at the same time you’re in the air,” Mills explained.

Reflecting on their achievements during the exercise, both captains highlighted the successful execution of the hub-and-spoke mission concept, which involved taking off from Spokane and operating out of Alaska’s airspace.

“The experience gained during the ACE exercise and being a hub-and-spoke mission was a big win for the crew,” Aoyama noted.

Mills expressed gratitude for the opportunity to operate out of Alaska, emphasizing its significance for their professional growth and readiness.

“It really feels full circle for me,” said Mills, who was raised in Alaska and learned to fly with the Aero Club on JBER.

The B-52 crew’s participation in Arctic Defender not only underscored the strategic importance of U.S. armed forces in Alaska, but also showcased the United States’ commitment to enhancing military readiness through multinational exercises. With ongoing challenges and evolving scenarios, exercises like Arctic Defender continue to serve as pivotal training grounds for preparing the next generation of Air Force leaders and operators.

“This exercise had a massive impact for the bomber community at large, said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Joseph Cangealose, the 69th BS commander. “We have the capability to take a 60-plus-year-old jet and fly it three days in a row supporting multiple combatant commands.”​

​“I’m extremely proud of my aircrew and the maintenance professionals that made this possible,” he said.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

SEMBAWANG, Singapore  –  

The underway Pacific Partnership 2024.2 (PP-24.2) team embarked the Spearhead-class Expeditionary Fast Transport ship USNS City of Bismarck (T-EPF 9), led by Rear Admiral Mark A. Melson, the U.S. Pacific Fleet Executive Agent for Pacific Partnership who will lead command and control (C2), and mission commander, U.S. Navy Captain Daniel J. Keeler.

Comprised of 1,500 personnel from the U.S. and like-minded partner nations, the mission team will work to strengthen relationships, and bolster host nation capacity in order to provide humanitarian services, and support efforts to prepare and respond to potential natural disasters in the Indo-Pacific region.

“This mission enables us to come together to prepare and train so that we are ready when a humanitarian crisis occurs.” said Melson. “We’ll focus on training and regional interoperability to increase disaster-response-preparedness while creating lasting bonds of friendship and trust amongst mission partners and host nations.”

PP-24.2 officially began in Vanuatu and will continue throughout parts of Southeast Asia and the South Pacific Islands – respectively.

During this mission, medical professionals will focus on working side-by-side with host nation providers to increase overall medical capacity and expertise in community education; preventative medicine; dental; veterinary care; adult and pediatric medicine; first aid; nutritional counseling; mental health activities; and basic life support. Medical subject matter expert exchanges are also interwoven into each engagement.

“This enduring annual mission is such an integral part in maintaining the long-standing friendships we have with allies and partners in the region,” said Keeler. “We are excited to continue this legacy of cooperation and support for this iteration and for many more in the future”.

Pacific Partnership will also include the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band, who will be embarked on USNS City of Bismarck.to provide concerts to local communities at each mission stop.

Now in its 20th iteration, Pacific Partnership, is the U.S. Navy’s largest maritime humanitarian and civic assistance mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

​At the request of each host nation, the Pacific Partnership team provides focused support to address critical infrastructure concerns. These concerns are traditionally centered around schools and health clinics, along with partnering with local communities to build engineering teams composed of host nation participants, U.S. military engineers, and partner nation engineers where available.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

GUAM  –  

Liberation Day is Guam’s most significant commemorative event, and July 21st, 2024, marked 80 years since the U.S. military delivered the island from Imperial Japanese occupation during World War II. Soldiers from Task Force Talon, the U.S. Army missile defense unit on the island, had the special honor of not only taking part in this year’s festivities, but also recognizing the U.S. troops that fought in the Battle of Guam during the annual Guam Liberation Day Parade.

“From landing on a beach under fire, to scaling high mountains, and clearing dense jungles, our Soldiers definitely earned a deep appreciation of the difficult tactical conditions the 77th Infantry Division personnel had to overcome during the Battle of Guam,” said Lt. Col. Jonathan Stafford, the Task Force Talon commander.

A week prior to this year’s celebration, Task Force Talon’s officers and NCOs conducted a staff ride following the footsteps of 77th Infantry Division in their endeavor to secure the island from Imperial Japan. Task Force Talon started at the site of initial landing at Agat Beach before hiking up Mt. Jumullong Manglo, which is Guam’s second-highest peak. From this vantage point, they were able to trace 77th Infantry Division’s movements through the island as they viewed the terrain through which the unit conducted patrols and collected information as they cleared southern Guam. The Task Force then traveled towards the far north of the island and made a final stop in Yigo to see the monument erected in honor of 77th Infantry Division.

As Guam’s community gathered to watch this year’s parade, they looked on as Task Force Talon had the special privilege of carrying the colors of 1st Battalion, 307th Infantry Regiment – the last remaining active unit from the U.S Army’s 77th Infantry Division that landed on Agat Beach 80 years prior. Command Sgt. Maj. Brian Rathbun, Sgt. First Class Andres Genao, and Sgt. First Class Jose Hernandez of 1st Battalion, 307th Infantry Regiment flew to Guam from Fort Dix, New Jersey to make this possible.

“It was a real honor to travel with our unit’s colors to Guam and march with Task Force Talon in the Liberation Day Parade to recognize the Soldiers from 77th Infantry Division,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Brian Rathbun, the senior enlisted leader from 1st Battalion, 307th Infantry Regiment. “This was a very special moment in our career that we will be able to talk about forever.”

Amidst the lavishly decorated parade floats, viewing tents, and barbecues, friends and family in Guam gathered to celebrate and watch 77th Infantry Division’s colors fly with pride on the island for the first time in decades. Task Force Talon had the distinct and rare opportunity of honoring the Soldiers who fought for liberation in this parade, and it will remain steadfast in its commitment to protecting Guam, continuing the legacy of freedom that 77th Infantry Division left behind.

During the Battle of Guam, over 37,000 U.S. Marine Corps. Marines and over 19,000 Soldiers of the U.S. Army’s 77th Infantry Division landed near the Orote Peninsula on July 21st, 1944, in the opening attacks of an initiative to reclaim the island from enemy forces. After the initial landing at Agat Beach, 77th Infantry Division advanced to conduct combat operations throughout the island in the battle to clear Japanese forces from Guam. In 20 days of fighting, 77th Infantry Division was able to secure the villages of Yona, Barrigada, and eventually Mt. Santa Rosa. The unit’s efforts were pivotal to mission success, and the liberation of Guam enabled U.S. forces to posture for further advancement into the Pacific towards the Philippines and Japan.

​U.S. Army news article by First Lt. Moira Guian Mailed.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii  –  

The Pacific Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) Center hosted the fifth United States-Republic of Korea (ROK) Tabletop Academy (KTTA), marking a significant step in strengthening ROK-U.S. defense cooperation. The event, held from July 8 to 19, brought together key components of the ROK’s defense branches, including the ROK Air Force, Air and Missile Defense Command, and the ROK Navy.

Several U.S. entities participated, including the Department of Defense, Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC), 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command (AAMDC), Pacific Fleet (PACFLT), NSA Weapons, Space and Cyber Security, U.S. Space Forces – Indo-Pacific, Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-sUAS) Office, and the Joint Ballistic Missile Defense Training & Education Center (JBTEC). The academy focused on enhancing ROK-U.S. IAMD expertise through hands-on defense design planning and modeling using the International Simulations (I-SIM) program.

KTTA 24 was primarily a bilateral hybrid (in-person/virtual) IAMD event. It provided a classified platform for open collaboration, exchange of views, and regional dialogue on IAMD operations between the United States and the ROK. The event aimed to foster theater security cooperation while identifying combined IAMD capabilities and challenges within a multilateral environment, aligned with the U.S. INDOPACOM vision.

A highlight of this year’s KTTA was the integration of trilateral participation from the ROK, Japan, and the U.S. On Aug. 18, 2023, President Biden welcomed ROK President Yoon and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to a historic trilateral summit at Camp David. During the summit, the three leaders affirmed ongoing progress in regularizing defensive exercises that strengthen trilateral responses to Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) threats (Fact Sheet: Trilateral Summit, Aug. 18, 2023).

In the spirit of this summit, the ROK Air and Missile Defense Command approved the U.S. Planner’s invitation for Japan to observe portions of the event and share national IAMD presentations among the ROK, U.S., and Japan. This was the first KTTA enabling the trilateral nations to share their operational IAMD national briefs, strengthening trilateral cooperation in support of a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

“The training was beneficial due to the inclusion of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force,” said ROK Air Defense Capt. Choi Jongwon. “It enabled our nations to share ballistic missile knowledge.” Additionally, KTTA focused on IAMD observations and lessons learned from theater-wide exercises, making real progress toward ROK joint IAMD academics with both the ROK Navy and Air Force.

​This academy reflects the United States’ commitment to strengthening the national defenses of the U.S. and its allies while demonstrating the significance of international partnerships in addressing complex security threats. By fostering collaboration and sharing expertise, the U.S. and the ROK work toward enhancing their collective defense capabilities and promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE BASE DARWIN, Australia  –  

In an unforgettable event, the Exercise Pitch Black 2024 Open Day at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Darwin, Australia, brought together military forces from across the globe, July 20. At the heart of the excitement stood the United States Air Force’s F-22A Raptor static display, drawing attendees of all ages.

As one of approximately 30 different aircraft on display, the jet symbolized international cooperation and showcased the strength of relationships of the Joint Force and partners. For the pilots and crew, participating in the Open Day was an opportunity to connect with the crowd of 30 thousand.

“Being here at the RAAF Open Day is not just about showcasing the F-22’s capabilities,” said U.S. Air Force F-22A Raptor pilot “Holster.” “It’s about building relationships and demonstrating our commitment to our Allies and partners. Events like these help us strengthen our ties and enhance our ability to work together in the future.”

The static display provided an up-close look at the F-22A, allowing visitors to appreciate its advanced features and hear firsthand from the pilots who operate it. USAF F-22A Raptor pilot “Faux” emphasized the importance of these interactions.

“Engaging with our Allies and partners during events like Pitch Black is crucial,” Faux said. “It’s not just about the technology; it’s about the people. By building these relationships, we ensure that we can operate effectively together, no matter the challenge.”

The event featured a variety of displays and demonstrations from the 20 participating nations showcasing the combination of international air power. The F-22A Raptor stood alongside aircraft from Australia, Singapore, India, Germany, Spain, France and many others.

Lt. Col. Ryan Nickell, USAF Pitch Black detachment commander, reflected on the broader impact of the event.

“Pitch Black 24 and the RAAF Open Day are perfect examples of how we can come together to build a stronger, more resilient network of Allies and partners,” Nickell said. “Our participation here demonstrates our unwavering commitment to these relationships and our shared goal of ensuring peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.”

The success of the event, with its emphasis on unity and collaboration, was a testament to the dedication of all involved.

​”Today was about more than just the aircraft here. It was about people coming together, sharing their knowledge, and building the trust that makes our joint and combined forces so effective,” Nickell said.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan  –  

The 374th Communications Squadron hosted its annual Facility Control Office Conference on July 12 at Yokota Air Base, Japan, to discuss updates to the Department of Defense Information Network.

FCO Japan ensures node sites, or network hubs, throughout its area of responsibility adhere to the most current standards established by the Defense Information Systems Agency. Currently, it is one of six facility control offices in the eastern region of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, responsible for overseeing node site operations at 12 major Department of Defense installations across mainland Japan, Singapore, and Diego Garcia, ensuring they operate effectively and seamlessly.

“It can be difficult for us to interface with each site individually, so we hold these yearly conferences to disseminate information to all the sites at the same time,” said Tech. Sgt. Corey Lewis, 374th CS FCO NCO in charge. “It also allows members to ask questions and voice any concerns.”

Designated representatives, known as node site coordinators, are assigned to and responsible for improving and supporting their servicing node sites and facilities. Through NSCs, both the connectivity of the network and the security protocols remain operational.

“We are the first line of help for our NSCs when an issue arises,” said Senior Airman Kim Yabut, 374th CS FCO technician. “Usually if they are unable to solve the issue independently, they call us and we guide them to a solution.”

NSCs throughout the eastern Indo-pacific region attended the conference, with many tuning in virtually. The conference allowed the opportunity for members to review old and new network methods.

Lewis relayed the importance of supporting one another through everyday tasks due to the immense responsibility NSCs take on in the communication operations field.

“Although we interface with each site daily for technical assistance, sometimes members don’t know of all the support functions we can provide,” said Lewis. “This conference provides a platform for sites to meet, learn and share experiences.”

​The 374th CS focuses on maintaining and providing essential communication support and ensuring information superiority throughout the Indo-Pacific. Conferences, like the annual one FCO Japan hosted, enable Airmen to build upon current communication capabilities essential to developing mission over function mindset.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

SASEBO, Japan  –  

Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) commercial charter oiler MT Badlands Trader conducted ships qualification training (SQT) with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) oiler JS Hamana (AO-424), in which the ships performed a simulated consolidated cargo replenishment at sea (CONSOL), at sea West of Kyushu, Japan, July 22-23, 2024.

“The U.S. and Japan have a strong strategic alliance,” said Capt. Robert R. Williams, Commodore of MSC Far East in Singapore. “Interoperable refueling capabilities enhance this partnership by enabling joint operations, training exercises, and real-world missions. This cooperation reinforces mutual defense commitments and helps promote regional stability.”

CONSOL capability is when a specially outfitted MSC-controlled tanker conducts underway refueling operations, transferring cargo to combat logistics-force (CLF) ships at sea.

Typically, CLF ships are required to return to shore to a supply depot to resupply. A CONSOL eliminates those round-trips to a supply point, thereby, reduces cost and increases time at sea to support the fleet.

The training evolution builds upon a previous SQT between a U.S. Navy commercial oiler and a JMSDF oiler in October 2023. The ability of a JMSDF tanker to CONSOL allows them to also carry fuel out to the fleet, and provide underway replenishment of fuel, fleet cargo, and stores to customer ships at sea, thereby increasing capacity in the Indo-Pacific region.

Badlands Trader is one of a few commercial oil tankers that has been chartered and outfitted to pump fuel to CLFs at sea, which allows the CLF ships to stay closer to the fleet.

“CONSULs between JMSDF and U.S Navy fleet replenishment oilers are not new,” said Peter P. Bok, strategic sealift officer, MSC Far East. “However, the ability for JMSDF vessels to connect with an MSC-chartered commercial oiler is a capability that we are honing. This increases operational reach and endurance of both naval forces.”

In a CONSOL, providing fuel to CLF ships means they don’t have to return to a Defense Fuel Support Point to refuel, added Bok.

The two-day SQT began at port on board U.S. Fleet Activities Sasebo, Japan, and both crews participated in safety briefings, discussions and cross-deck training.

Day one involved pier side SQTs: deploying, retrieving and re-deploying the fuel lines between the two ships while at port.

Day two, both ships got underway and connected at sea as planned offering a successful proof-of-concept.

Both ships returned to port on day three.

“The SQTs reduce the risk of misunderstandings during CONSOL operations,” said Bok. “It also encourages the adoption of standardized procedures and equipment.”

MSC Far East supports the U.S. 7th Fleet and ensures approximately 50 ships in the Indo-Pacific Region are manned, trained, and equipped to deliver essential supplies, fuel, cargo, and equipment to warfighters, both at sea and on shore. 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.

​Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, MSC exists to support the joint warfighter across the full spectrum of military operations, with a workforce that includes approximately 6,000 Civil Service Mariners and 1,100 contract mariners, supported by 1,500 shore staff and 1,400 active duty and Reserve military personnel.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

SUVA, Fiji  –  

A quick glance at the packed schedule of events this month and later this fall underlined the importance of a bilateral affairs officer (BAO) in the Nevada National Guard.

For Nevada’s longtime Army aviator, Maj. Zackary Taylor-Warren, a busy summer schedule provided little time to prepare only three months after taking the new position in Suva, Fiji. Nevada has three State Partnership Program nations in the strategically crucial South Pacific: Tonga, Fiji and Samoa.

“There is a lot more going on in the Blue Pacific than most people realize,” he said.

Only three months into his new role, Taylor-Warren assisted a three-country tour for leaders of the Nevada National Guard, including Maj. Gen. Ondra Berry, Nevada adjutant general, and Brig. Gen. D. Rodger Waters, Nevada joint staff director.

On the docket: a visit for the King of Tonga’s 65th birthday and the 50th anniversary of the Tongan Navy, along with a fleet review of ships from Australia, New Zealand, Tonga, Japan, China, Samoa, and the U.S.

While in Tonga, the team met with the Chief of Defence Staff for His Majesty’s Armed Forces to discuss the partnership. Additionally, the group met key leaders in Wellington, New Zealand. The key leader engagement was capped off in Fiji with visits to the U.S. Embassy, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Territorial Forces Brigade and Fiji National University.

“This has definitely been the new experience I was looking for,” Taylor-Warren said. “Every day brings a new challenge. The days are long, but I know that the work I am doing is meaningful to our partner nations.”

Taylor-Warren’s primary role as the BAO is the Soldier on the ground coordinating Nevada’s State Partnership Program engagements. He also serves as the deputy chief for U.S. Embassy Suva’s Office of Defense Cooperation focused on Security Assistance and Security Cooperation in the Pacific region.

The National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program has built international relationships for more than 30 years since the end of the Cold War and now includes 96 partnerships with 106 nations.

“Nevada’s State Partnership is one of a few programs with three or more partner nations,” Taylor-Warren said. “We are unique, however, in that our program is regional in nature, and we can leverage that to increase our effectiveness with each partner.”

Taylor-Warren most recently worked as the Nevada Army National Guard’s logistics management officer and CH-47 maintenance test pilot at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Stead, Nevada. Prior to that, Taylor-Warren worked as the B Co. 1-189th GSAB company commander and 2-147th Assault Helicopter Battalion chief of operations on deployment to Iraq and Kuwait.

“I always knew that the State Partnership Program was active in Nevada and had even given tours of our Army Aviation Support Facility to our partners,” he said. “When the opportunity to apply for BAO came up, I jumped at it.”

That workload gets even busier as 56 nations prepare for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) set for Apia, Samoa on Oct. 21 to 26. Nevada’s newest partner, Samoa, will be “the first small island developing state from the Blue Pacific to host CHOGM,” according to CHOGM’s website. Additionally, Aug. 26 to 30, the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting will be hosted by Tonga and chaired by the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon Hu’akavemeiliku Siaosi Sovaleni.

​”From the moment he took over his duties as the BAO, Maj. Taylor-Warren has knocked it out of the park and done an amazing job for us,” said Maj. Dustin Petersen, Nevada SPP director. “The work he and the SPP team are doing is making a difference in bridging our relationships in the South Pacific.”

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

PACIFIC OCEAN  –  

Ships and aircraft participating in Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024 conducted long-planned, live-fire sinking exercises (SINKEXs) and sank the decommissioned USS Dubuque (LPD 8), July 11, 2024, and the decommissioned USS Tarawa (LHA 1), July 19, 2024. Both were sunk in waters 15,000 feet deep, more than 50 nautical miles off the northern coast of the island of Kauai.

During the SINKEXs, participating units from Australia, Malaysia, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, and the U.S. Air Force, Army and Navy gained proficiency in tactics, targeting and live firing against surface ships at sea. Events like live-fire SINKEXs give participating nations the ability to test and conduct training on weapons and systems in a realistic environment that cannot be replicated in simulators. Additionally, these training events refine partner nations’ abilities to plan, communicate and conduct complex maritime operations such as precision and long-range strike capabilities.

“Sinking exercises give us a chance to sharpen our skills, learn from one another, and get real-world experience,” said U.S. Navy Vice Adm. John Wade, RIMPAC 2024 Combined Task Force Commander. “Using advanced weapons and seeing the professionalism of our teams during these drills shows our commitment to keeping the Indo-Pacific region safe and open.”

The sinking of the ex-Tarawa included the employment of a Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) from a U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet. As a precise, stealthy, and survivable cruise missile, LRASM provides multi-service, multi-platform, and multi-mission capabilities for offensive anti-surface warfare. Currently, LRASMs are deployed from U.S. Navy F/A-18 and U.S. Air Force B-1B aircraft.

Additionally, in a partnership with the U.S. Navy, a U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bomber proved a low-cost, air-delivered method for defeating surface vessels through a QUICKSINK demonstration, as part of the second SINKEX. The QUICKSINK experiment is funded by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and aims to provide options to neutralize surface maritime threats while demonstrating the inherent flexibility of the joint force. This capability is an answer to an urgent need to quickly neutralize maritime threats over massive expanses of ocean around the world at minimal costs.

“The power of RIMPAC is in how it strengthens relationships between participating nations by challenging us to conduct realistic and relevant training together,” said Royal Australian Air Force Air Commodore Louise desJardins, Combined Force Air Component Commander. “It is a real demonstration of how we plan, communicate, and conduct complex operations like a SINKEX together and reflects the value of robust relationships between regional partners.”

Former Navy vessels used in SINKEXs, referred to as hulks, are prepared in strict compliance with regulations prescribed and enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under a general permit the Navy holds pursuant to the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act. Each SINKEX requires the hulk to sink to at least 1,000 fathoms (6,000 feet) of water and at least 50 nautical miles from land.

In accordance with EPA regulations, prior to a SINKEX, the Navy rigorously cleans the hulk and removes, to the maximum extent practicable, all materials that may degrade the marine environment, including the removal of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Additionally, petroleum is cleaned from the vessel’s tanks, pipes, and reservoirs and all trash, floatable materials, and mercury or fluorocarbon containing materials are removed. The Navy documents the hulk cleaning process to EPA and keeps EPA informed before and after the SINKEX.

SINKEXs are conducted only after the area has been surveyed for the presence of people, marine vessels, aircraft, and marine species. SINKEXs are planned in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act and executed in accordance with the Navy’s permits and authorizations under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, Endangered Species Act, and Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act.

Ex-Dubuque, an Austin-class amphibious transport dock, was commissioned on Sept. 1, 1967, at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia. From 1968 to 1975, the ship saw extensive duty in Vietnam. The ship was based in San Diego until 1985 and then joined the U.S. 7th Fleet in Sasebo, Japan. In the early 1990s, Dubuque joined efforts for Operation Desert Shield. The ship was decommissioned in June 2011.

Ex-Tarawa was the lead amphibious assault ship of her class upon commissioning on May 29, 1976. The ship was named after the Battle of Tarawa fought in the Pacific during World War II from November 20-23, 1943. Tarawa participated in a number of maritime exercises and operations supporting Operation Desert Shield, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and cyclone relief efforts in Bangladesh and other nearby countries. The ship was decommissioned in March 2009.

This year’s sinking of a Tarawa-class ship is the second time a ship of this class has been used for a SINKEX. Previously, the ex-USS Belleau Wood (LHA 3) was sunk during the SINKEX as part of RIMPAC 2006.

​Twenty-nine nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, more than 150 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC in and around the Hawaiian Islands, June 27 to Aug. 1. The world’s largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world’s oceans. RIMPAC 2024 is the 29th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

CHUUK, Federated States of Micronesia  –  

In a demonstration of solidarity and resilience, U.S. Marines and Sailors from Koa Moana 24 have been instrumental in helping deliver humanitarian aid support across the archipelago of Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia. Combat Logistics Detachment-West, the resident Koa Moana formation from Combat Logistics Battalion 13, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, provided limited foreign humanitarian assistance in a distributed, maritime environment. In support of the International Organization for Migration, this initiative strengthens disaster preparedness in the second island chain through the application of Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations concepts.

*Building Resilience with the International Organization for Migration*

In partnership with the International Organization for Migration, a crucial United Nations agency addressing migration challenges, the U.S. Marines and Sailors have taken proactive steps to enhance the region’s resilience against natural disasters. By leveraging their expertise and resources, they supported the IOM to implement agile crisis response strategies that safeguard lives and improve migration pathways.

Throughout the event, the Marines and Sailors distributed over two thousand bags of rice and three thousand cases of water to Chuuk’s outer islands. These resources will play a critical role in fortifying disaster relief preparations for communities on Uman, Dorr, and Utot islands. Distribution of this humanitarian assistance brought great pride to the Marines and Sailors supporting by making a difference to the Chuukese community.

Gunnery Sgt. Sean Arnold, the staff non-commissioned officer in charge of CLD-W, emphasized the significance of this mission: “I couldn’t be prouder of my Marines here on Chuuk Island supporting IOM as part of Koa Moana 24. This humanitarian effort to prepare for natural disasters and supply Chuuk’s outer islands showcases our commitment and dedication to our partners in Chuuk. It’s an honor to serve alongside the Marines on Chuuk Island, making a tangible difference while proudly representing the United States Marine Corps.”

*Preparedness and Innovation in Action*

The Marines and Sailors of CLD-W were prepared for this opportunity to support. Prior to deployment, all members renewed their swim qualifications knowing they would be operating around the Chuuk Lagoon’s many inner islands. Under the leadership of Gunnery Sgt. Arnold, who serves as a Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival, swimming sustainment is emphasized as a routine facet of the unit’s physical training program.

The humanitarian mission utilized a custom pontoon work barge, owned and operated by IOM UN Migration and the U.S. Agency for International Development Disaster Coordination Office. The vessel, with its aluminum ramp and minimal draft, proved invaluable in navigating the waters and delivering aid efficiently and safely.

*Local Impact and Enduring Partnerships*

The local communities’ reception was overwhelmingly positive, with residents expressing gratitude and appreciation for the aid delivered by the U.S. Marines.

The provision of rice and water is not merely a short-term solution but a catalyst for strengthening community resilience and unity. This intervention underscores the U.S. Marine Corps’ commitment to humanitarian causes and highlights the enduring partnership between the U.S. and the Federated States of Micronesia.

Lt. Col. Brian McCarthy, commanding officer of CLB-13, reiterated the importance of the mission: “The competition in this region, on these islands, is active. If the United States isn’t present doing the thing, then those influences will remain. Our mission is to demonstrate the Marine Corps’ steadfast commitment to our partners in the Pacific. We stand ready to continue supporting communities across the region. What Koa Moana is accomplishing here in Chuuk exemplifies what we can achieve when non-DOD agencies, the U.S. Marine Corps, and the host partner work together for a common purpose.”

*Looking Ahead: A Model for Future Collaboration*

As Koa Moana 24 continues through the summer, CLB-13’s Marines and Sailors are poised to deepen their engagement with Pacific Island partner nations. Beyond delivering humanitarian aid, they aim to extend their engineering expertise and forge positive relationships with local communities, inspiring future generations through their dedication and service.

U.S. Ambassador Jennifer Johnson praised the mission’s success: “We are incredibly proud that our teams were able to assist with the delivery of much-needed supplies to the outer islands of Chuuk. As always, we stand ready to work with and help our close friend and ally – the Federated States of Micronesia. Engagements like Koa Moana are just more evidence that we continue to renew our vows of friendship. We look forward to welcoming the Marines back for Koa Moana 2025.”

This initiative not only strengthens regional partnerships but also underscores the profound human impact of military service, showcasing the personal commitment of U.S. servicemembers to making a lasting difference in communities worldwide.