Aerial Operations and Freefall Training

Images featuring airborne military operations, including parachuting and live-fire exercises, showcasing readiness and teamwork.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Jeffrey Harrigian, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander, performs a static jump with members from the 57th Rescue Squadron during a visit at Aviano Air Base, Italy, April 21, 2022. While visiting Aviano AB, Harrigian completed his final flight in an F-16 Fighting Falcon, toured the 606th Air Control Squadron and performed two static jumps with pararescuemen from the 57th RQS.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Jeffrey Harrigian, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander, performs a static jump with members from the 57th Rescue Squadron during a visit at Aviano Air Base, Italy, April 21, 2022. While visiting Aviano AB, Harrigian completed his final flight in an F-16 Fighting Falcon, toured the 606th Air Control Squadron and performed two static jumps with pararescuemen from the 57th RQS.

U.S. Army Sgt. Quinlan Merrill, a CH-47 Chinook Crew Chief assigned to 2nd Battalion, 501st Aviation Support Battalion, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division, fires the M240B Machine Gun as part of the aerial gunnery live-fire exercise in Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, Oct. 19, 2022. The 2-501st conducted a combined aerial gunnery live-fire exercise to increase lethality across the brigade.

U.S. Army Cpl. John Weber, a UH-60 helicopter maintainer and crew chief assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 501st Aviation Regiment, Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division (1AD CAB), empties a M240H machine gun ammo pouch during a live-fire exercise at Drawsko Pomorski, Poland, Oct. 19, 2022. The 1AD CAB is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Army Spc. Brent Murray, crew chief with Bravo Company, 2-104th General Support Aviation Battalion, 28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade poses for a photo in a CH-47 Chinook helicopter as it flies over the 28th ECAB's mobilization station during a routine training flight.

U.S. reconnaissance Marines with Amphibious Reconnaissance Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct freefall jumps above Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, June 25, 2022. The ARP conducts freefall training to maintain readiness for situations requiring an airborne insertion. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Combat Team, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division ride in the back of an MV-22 Osprey while conducting fast rope training at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Nov. 29, 2022. This training prepares the company for helicopter-borne insertion and extraction operations.

A Soldier with Company D, 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma Army National Guard, adjusts a radio during a crew gunnery qualification at Fort Riley, Kan., March 25, 2023. 45th IBCT Soldiers conducted pre-mobilization training in preparation for their upcoming deployment as Task Force Tomahawk supporting operations across three East African countries.

220803-N-VJ326-4274 PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 3, 2022) - U.S. Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit prepare to board a CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 3, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Abraham Castaño, an MV-22 Osprey crew chief assigned to the Aviation Combat Element, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares his aircraft for landing during a bilateral training event in Norway, April 17, 2022. The 22nd MEU, embarked aboard the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group, is participating in a bilateral training event with the Kingdom of Norways Armed Forces to strengthen U.S. and Norway interoperability ensuring collective capabilities and steadfast partnerships among NATO allies and partners.

Airmen with the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron drop humanitarian assistance bundles over Pulap island, Chuuk State, Micronesia, during Operation Christmas Drop 2022. The aircraft, call sign Santa 51, delivered 9 bundles to islands in the Federated States of Micronesia. OCD is the longest-running Department of Defense humanitarian and disaster relief mission. Each year, the USAF partners with countries in the Pacific Air Forces area of responsibility to deliver supplies to remote island communities in the South-Eastern Pacific.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, checks communications during a rehearsal for a bilateral amphibious landing in the Philippine Sea, Oct. 6, 2022. The bilateral amphibious landing will be a combined interoperability event during KAMANDAG 6 involving members of the Philippine Marine Corps, Republic of Korea Marine Corps, and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. KAMANDAG is an annual, bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences.

U.S. Army Pfc. Carlos Cabanilla, and Spc. Tyler Ramos, infantrymen with the 2-113th Infantry Battalion, Delta Company, New Jersey Army National Guard, discuss targeting strategies inside an armored High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., April 22, 2022. The battalion is conducting gunnery communication exercises and crew shooting qualifications in preparation for a larger scale exercise at Fort Drum, N.Y. later this year.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Joshua Skorski, a CH-47 Chinook flight engineer assigned to Bravo Company, 1st Squadron, 214th General Support Aviation Battalion, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, looks for obstacles in the landing zone during a multinational media day held at Tampere, Finland, Aug. 3, 2022.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172 conduct maintenance on a wheel saw during exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Camp Betsuka, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 1, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, set up a .50 caliber machine gun during a defense of the amphibious task force exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18), in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 2, 2022. DATF senarios focus Navy and Marine Corps forces on defending ARG shipping and the drills allowed the ARG-MEU team to improve their proficiency when integrating fires. The 31st MEU is operating aboard the ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

220817-N-XN177-2217 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 17, 2022) - U.S. Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) disembark a CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) onto amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 17, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marines assigned to 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit and Hellenic Marines assigned to the 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade, prepare to helocast for a combined forces event during exercise Alexander the Great 2022, Skyros, May 16, 2022. Alexander the Great 22 strengthens interoperability and force readiness between the U.S., Greece, and Allied nations, enhancing strategic defense and partnership while promoting security and stability in the region.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 12, 2022) - U.S. Marines with All Domain Reconnaissance Company, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare for a Maritime Interception Operation exercise aboard amphibious transport dock ship USS Anchorage (LPD 23) July 12, 2022. The 13th MEU is currently embarked aboard the Anchorage, conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

U.S. Soldier Sgt. Caleb Assink, a crew chief with the 1st Battalion, 168th General Support Aviation Regiment peers out the window of a CH-47 Chinook Helicopter on Joint Base Lewis McChord, Wash., April 1, 2023.

A U.S. Army soldier jumps out of a C-17 Globemaster III from the 58th Airlift Squadron based out of Altus Air Force Base (AAFB), Oklahoma, over the Sicily Drop Zone near Fayetteville, North Carolina,Dec. 9, 2022. Over the two day operation, the AAFB aircrew dropped more than 800 jumpers.

A U. S. Air Force Airman from the 127thAircraft Maintenance Squadron, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, (SANGB) work side-by-side with soldiers from the Michigan Army National Guard and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, performing Agile Combat Employment (ACE) training while refueling an A-10 Thunderbolt II also from SANGB during an Integrated Combat Turn (ICT) during Northern Agility 22-2/Northern Strike 22, at Grayling Army Airfield, Mich., Aug. 9, 2022. Northern Agility 22-2 and Northern Strike 22 executing currently demonstrate how the Air Forces new Agile Combat Employment concept can be integrated into the joint fight. Northern Strike provides the perfect backdrop for the Michigan Air National Guard to establish Michigan as a center of excellence for ACE.

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (June 15, 2022) U.S. Marines assigned to Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 perform the first hot refueling, a bulk fuel technique of replenishing fuel while the engine of an aircraft is running, performed on Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti (CLDJ) on a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey. Proof of hot refueling capability in Djibouti demonstrated the capacity to reduce refueling time by 66 percent, a substantial increase in aircraft readiness.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observe the USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5) from the amphibious docking ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) during a visit, board, search, seizure exercise in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 7, 2024. Marines with the scout sniper platoon were tasked with providing observation and overwatch for Marines of the maritime raid force during the VBSS training. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the USS America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Marine Corps

During the U.S. - Norway Reciprocal Troop Exchange April 1, 2022, Norwegian and Minnesota National Guard Soldiers were transported to Landing Zone X-5A on Camp Ripley by CH-47 Chinook Helicopter to conduct joint training while Norwegian youth squads took part in aerial training on a UH-60 Blackhawk.

Nebraska National Guard Airmen and Soldiers board a 155th Air Refueling Wing KC-135 Stratotanker, Jan. 16, 2021, at the Nebraska National Guard air base in Lincoln. Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts and Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Daryl Bohac, approved a request for additional support to the D.C. National Guard and law enforcement agencies providing security during the 59th Presidential Inauguration.

GULF OF ADEN (April 23, 2016) Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Bryan Duncan salutes an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the Wildcards” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

221023-N-YD731-1365 ADRIATIC SEA (Oct. 23, 2022) Lt. David Barta, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, flies an MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter during a Vertical replenishment-at-sea, Oct. 23, 2022. TCarrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of CSG-10 and the GHWBCSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, VFA-103, VFO-86, VFA-136, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, VAW-121, HSC-5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

030204-M-3166S-032. Base: Angeles City State: Pampanga Country: Philippines (PHL)

U.S. Marines and Sailors with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, treat a simulated casualty during a night casualty evacuation exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 11, 2022. This integrated training establishes confidence and familiarity between the Marines and Sailors for in-flight medical treatment. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Levi Bowyer, an infantry Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, listens to instructions during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 12, 2022. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy Sailors with Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), load onto an MV-22 Osprey aircraft aboard the USS Bataan (LHD 5) for a bilateral exercise with the Hellenic Army in Greece March 7, 2014. The U.S. and Greece regularly conduct scheduled military exercises to strengthen professional and personal relationships. The MEU is deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations with the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group as a sea-based, expeditionary crisis response force capable of conducting amphibious missions across the full range of military operations.

U.S. Marines assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit board an MV-22 Osprey in Ventspil, Latvia, during exercise BALTOPS 22, June 12, 2022. BALTOPS 22 is the premier maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region. The exercise, led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and executed by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, provides a unique training opportunity to strengthen combined response capabilities critical to preserving freedom of navigation and security in the Baltic Sea.

Two U.S. Air Force Airmen with the 921st Contingency Response Squadron sets up a tent during Exercise Dragon Spark at Travis Air Force Base, California, Oct. 13, 2022. Exercise Dragon Spark consisted of Airmen from the 621st Contingency Response Wing and the 60th Air Mobility Wing who jointly-trained together on how to rapidly respond to a natural disaster or national emergency.

U.S. Soldiers with the 1st Squadron, 214th General Support Aviation Battalion, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, conduct low level flight training on a CH-47 Chinook helicopter at Tampere, Finland, Aug. 4, 2022. 12th Combat Aviation Brigade is one of the units to support U.S. European Command theater strategy by demonstrating U.S. commitment to European Allies and Partners and highlighting U.S. capabilities to diverse audiences. 12 CAB is among other units assigned to V Corps, America's Forward Deployed Corps in Europe. They work alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-ready forces, execute joint and multinational training exercises, and retain command and control for all rotational and assigned units in the European Theater.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 13th Aircraft Maintenance Unit stand at attention to notify their completion to the judges during the second quarter load crew competition at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 1, 2022. Expert weapons technicians evaluate participants on various aspects such as safety, accuracy, tool accountability and dress and appearance.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael Loh, right, director, Air National Guard, speaks with Lt. Col. Eric Marsh, commander, 266th Range Squadron (RANS), Idaho National Guard (IDNG), while flying over the Saylor Creek Bombing Range on an U.S. Army UH-60 Blackhawk, assigned to 1st Battalion, 183rd Aviation Regiment, IDNG, south of Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho, Aug. 20, 2022. The RANS is a geographically separated unit of the IDANG and provides electronic threats to aircraft that use ranges such as the SCBR, a range that encompasses over 100,000 acres of open training space for aircraft.

230412-N-YV347-1119 PHILIPPINE SEA (April 12, 2023) U.S. Navy Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 2nd Class Nathan Soneja, from Huntington Beach, Calif., loads an M240 lightweight machine gun aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52). Bunker Hill, part of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, is in U.S. 7th fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navys largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Alex Kaelke, a public affairs specialist with the 137th Special Operations Wing (SOW), Oklahoma National Guard, and a 352d SOW flight engineer sit in the back of a CV-22B Osprey as they fly over a training range, U.K., Aug. 2, 2022. Three 137th SOW Guardsmen conducted annual training with the 352d SOW Public Affairs office to gain experience integrating with an active-duty AFSOC wing, experiencing its air mission and working in a coalition environment.

Staff Sergeant of the U.S. Air Force sits strapped into the medevac hoist of a UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter while fellow crew chief sits down, in Kunduz, Afghanistan. Both soldiers are Gold Cross recipients for bravery.

U.S. Marines with 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, and Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, load ammunition and explosive ordnance onto a CH-53E Super Stallion aboard the U.S.N.S. Sacagawea in Kushiro Port, Japan, Oct 1, 2022. The United States Naval Ship Sacagawea serves as the command operating center for Combat Logistics Regiment 37, and provides logistical support to various units participating in Resolute Dragon. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

220603-N-SI601-1161 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 3, 2022) Members of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5, attached to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, deployed aboard the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), conduct a maritime interdiction exercise with Republic of Korea special forces aboard ROKS Marado (LPH 6112) during Carrier Strike Group Exercise 2022. Carrier Strike Group Exercise is a bilateral exercise between the U.S. Navy and Republic of Korea Navy. This exercise allows our navies to refine operations and engagement to strengthen future cooperation while supporting the alliance that remains vital to the security interests of both nations and to stability in Northeast Asia.

A U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter with the New Jersey National Guard's 1-150th Assault Helicopter Battalion drops off Soldiers during the 1-254th Regional Training Institute's Infantry Advanced Leaders Course 22-02 on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, April 9, 2022. The Infantry Advanced Leaders Course is a branch-specific course that provides Soldiers selected for promotion to Staff Sgt. an opportunity to enhance leadership, technical skill, tactical expertise and experience needed to lead squad-size units.

Cpl. Ethan S. Moyer (right), an airframes mechanic and aerial observer with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466, Marine Aircraft Group 40, Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, fires a short burst from his M2 .50 caliber machine gun with supervision from Sgt. James Roderick (left), a crew chief with the squadron. Test fires, like this, are part of the routine drills during flight to ensure the crew is ready to respond to potential enemy actions.

U.S. Soldiers with the 2nd Battalion, 146th Field Artillery regiment, Washington National Guard, ride a CH-47 Chinook helicopter during a sling load operation on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., April 1, 2023. Sling load operations allow for the rapid re-deployment of tactical military assets.

Soldiers assigned to Apex Company, 63rd Expeditionary Signal Battalion, 35th Signal Corps Brigade partnered with Soldiers From the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade to air insert two Terrestrial Transmission Line Of Sight radios (TRILOS) on June 7, 2022. During their training, Apex Company Soldiers conducted platoon validations on Command Post Nodes (CPN), Joint Network Nodes (JNN), and TRILOS to test their expeditionary signal communications and further support XVIII Airborne Corps and all its mission command systems. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Maxine Baen)

U.S. Marines with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, wait to board a C-130 with Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, for an air delivery exercise at Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, June 7, 2022. The purpose of the exercise was to maintain training and readiness qualifications as well as simulate a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System ammunition resupply via air delivery. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Force's comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

220909-N-XN177-2073 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 9, 2022) - Sailors and U.S. Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) treat a simulated casualty during a fast rope training evolution aboard assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 9, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Army soldiers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade walk in a line to load an aircraft on Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 7, 2022. The paratroopers used the nearby 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadrons Hangar Five to prepare equipment which allowed for closer proximity to the aircraft, expedited the airborne timeline, and mitigated jumper fatigue prior to follow-on Saber Junction 2022 operations.Saber Junction is a multinational rotational exercise designed to assess the readiness of the U.S. Army's 173rd Airborne Brigade to execute unified land operations in a joint, combined environment and to promote interoperability with more than 4,500 participants from the U.S. and Allied and partner nations.

U.S. Soldiers with Third Platoon, "Blackhorse" Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division wear upgraded Integrated Visual Augmentation System goggles while sitting inside a Stryker armored vehicle preparing for a movement-to-contact urban raid exercise on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., August 24, 2022. The exercise was part of a two-day demonstration event hosted by the Program Executive Office of Ground Combat Systems with the aim of integrating Soldier feedback into the development of new military combat technology.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Patrick Holcomb, an infantry Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, sets security during a Defense of the Amphibious Task Force drill aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 9, 2022. DATF is a task force designed to defend naval ships from water and airborne threats while transiting open waters. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

(Left and right) U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Kembria Mims, 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron aviation resource manager, and Airman 1st Class Conner Pingleton, 36th EAS C-130J loadmaster, push out low-cost, low-altitude bundle drops over Tamatam island, Chuuk State, Federated States of Micronesia, Dec. 8, 2022. The aircraft, call sign Santa 51, delivered 9 bundles to islands in the Federated States of Micronesia. OCD is the longest-running Department of Defense humanitarian and disaster relief mission. Each year, the USAF partners with countries in the Pacific Air Forces area of responsibility to deliver supplies to remote island communities in the South-Eastern Pacific.

U.S. Airmen from the 386th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron and U.S. Soldiers upload an Apache helicopter onto a C-17 Globemaster III at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, June 23, 2022. Aerial porters from the 386th ELRS and aviation specialists from the U.S. Army 11th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade conducted relief in place/transfer of authority of Apache helicopters designated to the U.S. Army 101st Aviation Battalion.

U.S. Army soldiers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade await take-off aboard a C-17 Globemaster III on Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 7, 2022. In support of the 173rd ABNs Saber Junction 2022, the 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing readied the aircraft, aircrew, loaded cargo and passengers and hosted the paratroopers in the nearby Hangar Five as a preparation facility. Saber Junction is a multinational rotational exercise designed to assess the readiness of the U.S. Army's 173rd Airborne Brigade to execute unified land operations in a joint, combined environment and to promote interoperability with more than 4,500 participants from the U.S. and Allied and partner nations.

Airmen from the 165th Airlift Wing, Savannah, Ga., conduct an airdrop of American, Italian, French, and Dutch paratroopers over Pisa, Italy, on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2016. The multilateral training focuses on maintaining joint readiness while building interoperability with NATO forces.

Japan Air Self-Defense Force Tech Sgt. Daichi Kubota, 403rd Tactical Airlift Squadron loadmaster, sits on the ramp of a C-17 Globemaster III during a bilateral training exercise with the 535th Airlift Squadron around the Hawaiian Islands, Sept. 27, 2022. The exercise was held to strengthen partnerships with allies and increase interoperability for future operations with the C-2 and C-17 airframes.

Spc. Jordan Hutch, a CH-47 Chinook Crew Chief assigned to the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, watches ongoing operations after completing a joint and multinational air assault training mission as part of Exercise Swift Response on May 12, 2022, near Krivolak Training Area, North Macedonia. The purpose of this exercise is to present combat credible Army forces in Europe and Africa, and Enhance Readiness by building airborne interoperability with Allies and Partners and the integration of joint service partnership.

030323-F-7234P-058. Subject Operation/Series: FOAL EAGLE and RSO&I Base: Taegu Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR) Scene Major Command Shown: Pacific Air Command Air Forces

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Hannah Thrash, a landing support specialist with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Units (Special Operations Capable) (26 MEU(SOC)) Logistics Command Element fires at a target during a live-fire training event aboard harpers ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD-50), Feb. 5, 2024. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26 MEU(SOC) is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied and partner interests. Marine Corps

U.S. Air Forces Central Band "Total Force" gathers their gear at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, Dec. 18, 2012. This was the first stop on the band's tour throughout Afghanistan, playing for U.S. and coalition service members.

A Colorado Army National Guardsmen views the Colorado landscape from the back of a COARNG CH-47 Chinook helicopter on the ride home after a long day of aerial evacuation in support of flood relief operation in Larimer County, Colo., Sept 16, 2013.

Philippine Air Force combat air controllers coordinate airspace during exercise Balikatan 22 at Colonel Ernesto Rabina Air Base, Tarlac, Philippines, April 1, 2022. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan 22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation.

U.S. Marines with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct a live-fire range aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7) in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 12, 2022. Marines need to keep their shooting skills sharp even while out at sea. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Army and International Paratroopers prepare to load a Ch-47 Chinook Helicopter during Leapfest 2022 at the Quonset Army Aviation Support Facility in Washington County, Rhode Island, August 3, 2022. Leapfest is the largest, longest standing, international static line parachute training event and competition hosted by the 56th Troop Command, Rhode Island Army National Guard to promote high level technical training and esprit de corps within the International Airborne community.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires a .50 caliber machine gun during a defense of the amphibious task force exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18), in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 2, 2022. DATF senarios focus Navy and Marine Corps forces on defending ARG shipping and the drills allowed the ARG-MEU team to improve their proficiency when integrating fires. The 31st MEU is operating aboard the ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airmen Spencer Kans and Joseph Snell, 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron loadmasters, launch cargo out of the back of a C-130J Super Hercules during Cope South 2024, Feb. 22, 2024 at BAF Bangabandhu Cantonment, Bangladesh. CS24 is a Pacific Air Forces-sponsored, bilateral tactical airlift exercise conducted in Bangladesh, with a focus on improving interoperability with the BAF and supporting the Bangladesh Armed Forces long-term modernization efforts. Air Force

Airmen assigned to the 105th Base Defense Squadron fly on a 105th Airlift Wing C-17 Globemaster III to Avon Park Range, Florida to participate in a Mission Readiness Exercise. The Airmen lived in field conditions for nearly two weeks while honing critical skills.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, carry a simulated casualty toward a UH-1Y Huey helicopter during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 12, 2022. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Marine Joseph Burk fires at his target on the move during a short-range marksmanship qualification course aboard the USS Rushmore at sea in the Indian Ocean, June 18, 2015. Burk is a team leader with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The marksmanship course improves Marines combat shooting tactics and prepares them for future operations while deployed with the 15th MEU.

Paratroopers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division board a C-17 during Operation Falcon Blitz on Fort Bragg, NC, Jan. 28, 2023. Paratroopers will conduct an airborne operation in order to enhance brigade readiness and lethality.

Marines and sailors with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, conduct close-quarter firing drills in the Gulf of Aden aboard the USS Oak Hill, Nov. 7. The live-fire exercise provided an opportunity for the unit to practice marksmanship and increase the units shooting proficiency. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jonathan Steed, right, a section leader assigned to Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Illinois native, fires a .50-caliber machine gun at a waterborne target during small craft caliber team training aboard the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset (LPD 25) in the Pacific Ocean, Feb. 1, 2024. Somerset is currently underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet with elements of the 15th MEU. Marine Corps

220912-N-CM110-1020 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 12, 2022) - U.S. Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) fire M4A1 carbine assault rifles during a small arms qualification shoot aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 12, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. FIFTH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 17, 2018) Marines assigned to the Command Element, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), prepare to fire on their targets during a pistol qualification aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is the flagship for the Essex Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 13th MEU, is deployed to the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.

220909-N-XN177-2064 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 9, 2022) - U.S. Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) observe a fast rope demonstration aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 9, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marines and Sailor with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire their rifles during a deck shoot aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 3, 2022. The Combat Marksmanship Program is designed to sustain a unit's lethality. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

220921-N-TT639-1103 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sep. 21, 2022) - U.S. Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) participate in a small arms qualification shoot aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 21, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Tanner Arnold, an infantry squad leader with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, holds a rope during fast rope training aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 5, 2022. Fast roping allows for fast inserts in a contested area. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Staff Sgt. Oscar Ortiz, a CH-47 Chinook Flight Engineer assigned to the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, looks out of a window after completing a joint and multinational air assault training mission with NATO allies during DV-Day for Exercise Swift Response on May 12, 2022, near Krivolak Training Area, North Macedonia. Exercise Swift Response 2022 is an annual multinational training exercise which takes part in Eastern Europe, the Arctic High North, Baltics and Balkans from May 2-22, 2022.

U.S. Marines attached to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) disembark the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24) in Morehead City, North Carolina, Oct. 10, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Air Force Airmenassigned to IncirlikAir Base offload tentsto aid the victims of thedevastating earthquakes inTürkiye at Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye, Feb. 22, 2023. The aid wasdelivered by a C-17 aircraft from Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia to Incirlik on February 22.

Airmen from the 36th Airlift Squadron, Yokota Air Base, Japan, watch as the parachute deploys and a box of humanitarian goods travels to the Yap Islands below during Operation Christmas Drop, Dec. 14. Operation Christmas Drop is the Air Forces longest-running humanitarian which began in 1952. What started as a WB-50 aircrew returning to Guam on its final flight before Christmas has turned into the longest running humanitarian campaign in the history of the U.S. Air Force and the entire world.

(Left to right) U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Benjamin Pall and Airman 1st Class Riley Henagar, both with the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron C-130J loadmasters, conduct a simulated dynamic airdrop delivery over Tinian, Dec. 1, 2022, during Operation Christmas Drop 2022. Events like OCD 2022 deliver assistance to remote populations while also offering aircrew an opportunity to maintain preparedness for real world emergencies.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Ben Longyear, a 517th Airlift Squadron loadmaster, prepares to take off in a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 3rd Wing during Polar Force 22-4 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 31, 2022. Polar Force 22-4 is led by the 3rd Wing and was designed to hone in on strategies service members require when navigating adverse situations and austere environments.

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division, disembark from an MV-22 Osprey at a landing zone in Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 5, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms and maneuver across multiple domains.

220603-N-SI601-1251 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 3, 2022) Members of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5, attached to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, deployed aboard the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), conduct a maritime interdiction exercise with Republic of Korea special forces aboard ROKS Marado (LPH 6112) during Carrier Strike Group Exercise 2022. Carrier Strike Group Exercise is a bilateral exercise between the U.S. Navy and Republic of Korea Navy. This exercise allows our navies to refine operations and engagement to strengthen future cooperation while supporting the alliance that remains vital to the security interests of both nations and to stability in Northeast Asia.

Indiana National Guard soldiers of the 81st Troop Command and the 38th Infantry Division conduct rappel and special patrol infiltration/exfiltration system training at Camp Atterbury. Camp Atterbury is a State of Indiana and Department of Defense collaborative enterprise whose efforts are focused on creating and operating a highly realistic, fiscally responsible, contemporary and developmental testing environment in which joint, interagency, intergovernmental, multi-national and non-governmental capabilities can prepare as a team for deployment in support of national requirements both in the homeland and overseas.

U.S. Marines with Light Armored Reconnaissance detachment, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fire at targets during a live-fire range aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) in the Atlantic Ocean, July 26, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, await command to shoot at targets during the table two course of fire at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 16, 2024. The table two course of fire teaches recruits the fundamentals of safety and marksmanship in combat shooting positions and rifle carries.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 272 look at an MV-22B Osprey at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Jan. 30, 2023. Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 261 trained to support Marine ground units during Service Level Training Exercise 2-23, a series of exercises designed to prepare Marines for operations around the globe. VMM-261 and MWSS-272 are subordinate units of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

Special forces soldier armed with rifle, standing on bow of a speed boat.

A U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force litter team load a simulated casualty into an ambulance during a mass casualty drill during exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 6, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

A U.S. Navy Sailor with Special Boat Team - TWELVE, U.S. Naval Special Warfare Group FOUR holds a caving ladder for Swedish Marines with 4th Marine Regiment, Swedish Amphibious Corps conducting a visit, board, search, and seizure during exercise TYR 22 at the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operational Training Centre (NMIOTC) in Souda bay, Greece, July 13, 2022. TYR 22 is a maritime interdiction operations exercise held at NMIOTC, bringing together Swedish Marines, U.S. Marines, U.S. Navy Special warfare combatant-craft crewmen to improve US and NATO Partner operational capacity, capability, and interoperability.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, carry a boat engine during a boat launch sustainment exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 4, 2022. Launching from the well deck provides the MEU a ship-to-shore capability. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

U. S. Air Force Capt. Steven Reyes, left, and Capt. Anthony Santoro, right, both C-17 Globemaster III pilots assigned to the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, conduct pre-flight checks at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, April 24, 2022. The 816th EAS, deployed with Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central), is responsible for delivering cargo and personnel to U.S. and partner nation forces' bases, providing airpower to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

U.S. Airmen configure the ramp toes of a C-17 Globemaster III to offload various cargo in preparation for Checkered Flag 22-2 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, May 5, 2022. Checkered Flag is a large-force aerial exercise held at Tyndall which fosters readiness and interoperability through the incorporation of 4th- and 5th-generation aircraft during air-to-air combat training. The 22-2 iteration of the exercise was held May 9-20, 2022.

U.S. Airmen with 921st Contingency Response Squadron, prepare to conduct an external airlift at Landing Zone Eagle, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 24, 2022. The exercise was conducted between 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 and 921st CRS, in order to advance joint-force integration and experimentation initiatives, in support of Force Design 2030.

220525-N-IR734-1677 PHILIPPINE SEA (May 25, 2022) Naval Air Crewman (Helicopter) 1st Class Caleb Rausch, from Durham, North Carolina, looks out the portside gunners window in an MH-60S Seahawk attached to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 from the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

Pararescue personnel from the Alaska Air National Guards 212th Rescue Squadron, 176th Wing, and California ANGs 131st Rescue Squadron, 129th Rescue Wing, settle into a AKANGs 144th Airlift Squadron C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at Moffett Federal Airfield, Calif., Sept. 12, 2018. The Guardsmen complete with equipment, trailers and vehicles are in route to Dover Air Force Base, Del., in preparation for offering support to civil authorities as needed in response to hurricane relief operations.

Airman 1st Class Jesus Ayon Noriega, 57th Maintenance Group Aircraft Armament Systems specialist, walks around an F-16 Fighting Falcon during the third quarter Load Crew Competition at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Oct. 14, 2022. The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a highly maneuverable aircraft that has proven itself in air-to-air combat and air-to-surface attack.

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