Special Operations Training

U.S. military personnel engaged in various amphibious and rescue operations, demonstrating tactical maneuvers and teamwork in marine settings.

Members assigned to U.S. Special Operations Command execute a simulated rescue mission during a Special Operations Forces (SOF) demonstration in Downtown Tampa, Florida, May 18, 2022. SOF Week is the premier gathering for the SOF community and industry, bringing together more than 11,000 attendees, including representatives from more than 100 countries to collaborate on new initiatives and capabilities needed for SOF professionals to compete and win in the future.

Members assigned to U.S. Special Operations Command execute a simulated rescue mission during a Special Operations Forces (SOF) demonstration in Downtown Tampa, Florida, May 18, 2022. SOF Week is the premier gathering for the SOF community and industry, bringing together more than 11,000 attendees, including representatives from more than 100 countries to collaborate on new initiatives and capabilities needed for SOF professionals to compete and win in the future.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, take part in amphibious operations during KAMANDAG 6 at Naval Education, Training, and Doctrine Command, Zambales, Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. This combined interoperability event also involved 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 shared experiences.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, take part in an amphibious landing during KAMANDAG 6 at Naval Education, Training, and Doctrine Command, Zambales, Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. This combined interoperability event also involved 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 shared experiences.

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. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Feb. 11, 2013) Gas Turbine System Technician (Electrical) 2nd Class James Doerner, assigned to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), assumes a ready-to-fire position aboard a rigid-hull inflatable boat during a visit, board, search and seizure exercise. Mobile Bay is deployed with the John C. Stennis Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, starts a combat rubber raiding craft engine during a boat launch rehearsal aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the South China Sea, Sept. 20, 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 with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a British Royal Marine commando, an observer for the training, navigate in combat rubber raiding craft after a simulated raid off the coast of Claveria, Philippines, Oct. 3, 2022. The training was a part of KAMANDAG 6 to reinforce tactics and techniques between the different forces. 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 shared experiences.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a British Royal Marine commando, an observer for the training, navigate in combat rubber raiding craft after a simulated raid off the coast of Claveria, Philippines, Oct. 3, 2022. The training was a part of KAMANDAG 6 to reinforce tactics and techniques between the different forces. 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 shared experiences.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, paddle out during a boat launch rehearsal aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the South China Sea, Sept. 20, 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.

Swedish Marines with 4th Marine Regiment, Swedish Amphibious Corps prepare to conduct a hook and climb from a combat craft assault with Special Boat Team - TWELVE, U.S. Naval Special Warfare Group FOUR 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. Sailors assigned to the Beach Master Unit 1 and the Amphibious Construction Battalion train while conducting experimentations using a submersible matting system during Project Convergence- Capstone 4 at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 29, 2024. The Submersible matting creates a stable roadway system to bridge the gap between low and high tides on the shoreline.Project Convergence 2024 is a campaign of events in order to build trust in new technologies with Joint and Multinational partners. Army

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Joe Thomas, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 469, fires a GAU-21 off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 3, 2022. HMLA-469 conducted a Strike Coordination and Reconnaissance drill in order to increase proficiency and lethality throughout the squadron.

Australian Royal Navy Sailors carry a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat to the water to prepare visitors from The Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) for departure after touring Her Majesty Australian Ship (HMAS) Labuan (L128) in Sofifi, Indonesia, on July 20, 2010. Mercy is in the North Maluku Islands conducting Pacific Partnership 2010, the fifth in a series of annual U.S. Pacific Fleet endeavors conducted in Indonesia as a disaster relief exercise aimed at strengthening regional partnerships.

U.S. Marines with Headquarters and Service Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 27, push a combat rubber reconnaissance craft into the water during Summer Pioneer 2022 at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 15, 2022. Summer Pioneer 2022 is a naval engineering exercise demonstrating integrated U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy formations to establish and sustain Expeditionary Advanced Bases (EAB) and Maritime Domain Awareness.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, paddle out during a boat launch rehearsal aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the South China Sea, Sept. 20, 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 with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, paddle out during a boat launch rehearsal aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the South China Sea, Sept. 20, 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.

Troops armed with M16A1 rifles and M60 machine guns prepare to go ashore from a utility landing craft during the joint US/Honduras training Exercise AHUAS TARA II (BIG PINE). The amphibious cargo ship USS CHARLESTON (LKA 113) is visible in the background. Subject Operation/Series: AHUAS TARA II (BIG PINE) Country: Honduras (HND)

GULF OF ADEN (Dec. 17, 2016) As the sun sets over the Gulf of Aden, U.S. Marines with 2nd Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), position their rigid-hulled inflatable boat to conduct a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) mission as part of Exercise Alligator Dagger, Dec. 17. The unilateral exercise provides an opportunity for the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and 11th MEU to train in amphibious operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. The 11th MEU is currently supporting U.S. 5th Fleets mission to promote and maintain stability and security in the region.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, lift a combat rubber raiding craft during a boat raid debarkation aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 2, 2022. 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.

GULF OF ADEN (April 26, 2016) Members of guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez's (DDG 66) visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) team operate a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB). 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.

040813-M-5753Q-017. Base: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

DF-ST-86-07563. Base: Alexandria Country: Egypt (EGY)

The 132nd Multi-Role Bridge Company, talks about the new M30 Boat and building a raft at Whiskeytown Lake near Redding, California on August 19, 2022 as part of a drill. These Bridge Builder Crewmembers (12C) practice their craft almost every drill ato remain ready for when called to duty.

BLACK SEA (Aug. 30, 2015) Visit, board, search, and seizure team members assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) conduct a training exercise aboard the Romanian corvette ROS Sebastian (F 264). Donald Cook is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, maneuver through the water in combat rubber raiding crafts during a launch and recovery exercise, in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 6, 2022.The Marines conducted this exercise to refine launching and recovering from USS New Orleans (LPD 18) with help from the Sailors assigned to LPD 18.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. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Paul Kainz, a squad leader with Golf Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fires at targets during a live-fire range aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) in the Atlantic Ocean, July 15, 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. Marines and sailors with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit's Maritime Raid Force ride in rigid-hull inflatable boats during maritime interoperability training off the coast of Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 12, 2015. MIT prepares the MRF for its upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills and teaching them techniques for boarding vessels.

220504-N-TT059-1015 ARABIAN SEA (May 04, 2022) Sailors ride in a rigid hull inflatable boat during small boat operations aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) in the Arabian Sea, May 4. Momsen is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines conduct a rifle range with members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) observers during Keen Sword 23 aboard the USS New Orleans LPD-18, Pacific Ocean, Nov. 13, 2022. Keen Sword is a biennial training event that exercises the combined capabilities and lethality developed between 3d Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. This bilateral field-training exercise between the U.S. military and the JGSDF strengthens interoperability and combat readiness of the U.S.-Japan alliance.

220611-N-TI693-1023NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece, (June 11, 2022) Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Daniel Posch, from San Antonio, assigned to Maritime Security Squadron One, stands a security watch aboard the Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base USS Hershel "Woody" Williams (ESB 4) while departing Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Greece, June 11, 2022. Hershel Woody Williams is rotationally deployed to the U.S. Naval Forces Africa area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet, to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

110820-N-QL471-119 ARABIAN GULF (Aug. 20, 2011) Members of the visit, board, search and seizure team from the guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103) ride in rigid hull inflatable boats during a training exercise. Truxtun is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn.

ARABIAN GULF (April 16, 2020) Electronics Technician 2nd Class Hao Lienh, assigned to Commander Task Force 56, stands watch on a Mark VI patrol boat before a weapons sustainment exercise in the Arabian Gulf, April 16, 2020. CTF-56 is responsible for the planning and execution of expeditionary missions including coastal riverine operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

U.S. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct amphibious operations during KAMANDAG 6, Zambales, Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. 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.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit holds security during a visit, board, search, and seizure operation aboard USS Miguel Keith (ESB-5), off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, June 14, 2022. Conducting these training operations brings the Amphibious Raid Force and BLT 2/5 closer to one cohesive unit under the 31st MEU. 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.

GULF OF ADEN (April 30, 2016) Cpl. Travis Palazzolo, left, and Lance Cpl. Devin Halbach, assigned to the 13th Marine Corps Expeditionary Unit (MEU), provide security during operations on the bridge wing of guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez is currently operating with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Brock A. Goldbeck, a crewman with Company A, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, attached to Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Continuing Promise 2010, operates an amphibious assault vehicle, off the coast of Chiriqui Grande, Panama, during demonstrations for service members and civilians, Oct. 5. Service members and civilians are deployed in support of CP10 providing medical, dental, veterinary, engineering assistance and subject-matter exchanges to Caribbean, Central and South American nations.

120114-N-VH839-010RED SEA (Jan. 14, 2012) Fire Controlman 2nd Class Matthew Burger, a visit, board, search, and seizure team member aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105), leads his team across the missile deck toward the bridge during a joint-training exercise with U.S. Coast Guardsmen. USS Dewey is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations.

221007-N-XB010-1001 Philippine Sea (Oct. 7, 2022) - Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) manage the well deck as Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) prepare to disembark from the stern gate on a combat ready rubber craft (CRRC). New Orleans, part of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

230322-N-MW880-1057 TYRRHENIAN SEA (March 22, 2023) Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Calvin Quinn, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 12, prepares to fast-rope onto the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) during a visit, board, search and seizure drill, March 22, 2023. 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.

Soldiers from the Headquarter and Headquarters and Charlie Company, 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment, U.S. Army Hawaii Reserve and French soldiers work together to maintain an orderly crowd control on Huahine, French Polynesia, May 15, 2022, during Marara 22. Exercise Marara 22 reinforces U.S. commitments to our allies and partners in Oceania and raises our collective readiness to address crises and contingencies in the region.

Reserve Citizen Airmen from the 304th Rescue Squadron approach the shore of McGuire Island during maritime training on the Columbia River in Portland, Ore., September 13, 2022. These Airmen are trained to conduct combat search and rescue in any location or climate. The squadron is housed at Portland Air National Guard Base, Ore. and is a geographically separated unit of the 943rd Rescue Group out of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.

110628-N-YO394-195CURACAO, Netherlands Antilles (June 28, 2011) A Royal Netherlands Marine, front, directs Sailors assigned to Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 3 during maneuvers near the Royal Netherlands Navy logistics support vessel HNLMS Pelikaan (A804). RIVRON-3 is cross-training with elements of the Dutch marine corps and navy for a three-week training course intended to familiarize U.S. Navy Sailors with Dutch ship-to-shore amphibious operations.

011016-N-4790M-003. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM 2001 Country: Unknown

PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 1, 2022) Personnel from the Australian Army, Malaysian Army Paratroopers and Sri Lanka Marine Corps form up on the flight deck of Royal Australian Navy Canberra-class landing helicopter dock HMAS Canberra (L02) in preparation for an air assault amphibious raid during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. 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 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (Photo by Royal Australian Navy Leading Seaman Matthew Lyall)

A U.S. Marine with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, pilots a combat rubber raiding craft during an Expeditionary Operations Training Group amphibious raid course near Red Beach on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 22, 2022. During the course, the Marines gained proficiency in small boat operations and tactics to increase their capability to operate in a littoral environment.

U.S. Air Force pararescuemen assigned to the 31st Rescue Squadron prepare to enter the water and swim to an extraction point during a search and rescue exercise in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 13, 2022. The training was conducted to enhance alternate insertion and extraction method capabilities, ensuring RQS personnel are ready to rapidly respond at a moment's notice.

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.

220603-N-SI601-1415 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.

110401-N-3154P-083MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 1, 2011) Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU), conduct a chemical, biological, and radiological environment weapons training exercise aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Kearsarge is the command ship of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

020430-M-9902V-027. Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: 3 MEF

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, advances onto a beach during a simulated raid in Claveria, Philippines, Oct. 3, 2022. The training was a part of KAMANDAG 6 to reinforce tactics and techniques between the different forces. 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 shared experiences.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 5th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade, prepare for a wet-gap crossing operation part of Defender Europe 22 held at Dęblin, Poland, May 17, 2022. Defender Europe 2022 is a series of U.S. Army Europe and Africa multinational training exercises in Eastern Europe. The exercise demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas ability to conduct large-scale ground combat operations across multiple theaters supporting NATO.

RED SEA (May 22, 2012) Sailors and Marines assigned to the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and embarked elements of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) conduct visit, board, search and seizure exercises aboard the Military Sealift Command maritime prepositioning ship USNS SGT William R. Button (T-AK 3012) during Exercise Eager Lion 2012. The exercise is designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships through a joint, multinational approach to meet current and future complex national security challenges, including 19 countries from five different continents and more than 11,000 participants.

220917-N-LK647-0024 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 17, 2022) Gunners Mate 3rd Class Zackary Romero, left, Seaman Christopher Lopez, middle, and Fire Controlman (AEGIS) 2nd Class Shatamba Chinkuli fire a Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun as part of a live fire exercise aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) during Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT). Normandy is underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group conducting SWATT exercises to increase lethality, ensure combat readiness, and promote tactical innovation. SWATT is led by the Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center, whose mission is to increase the tactical proficiency and lethality of the surface force.

220912-N-XB010-2004 SEA OF JAPAN (Sept. 12, 2022) - Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) receive instructions for a live-fire shoot with M-4 rifles on the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) flight deck in the Sea of Japan. New Orleans, part of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

010325-N-9802B-001. Subject Operation/Series: SOCEX 2001 State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN)

220718-N-HB628-1018BELLOWS AIR FORCE STATION, Hawaii (July 18, 2022) Mexican Naval Infantry Marines launch combat rubber raiding craft for an amphibious exercise during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. 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 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aiko Bongolan)

U.S. Marines with Headquarters and Service Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 27, demonstrate how to ride a combat rubber reconnaissance craft during Summer Pioneer 2022 at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 15, 2022. Summer Pioneer 2022 is a naval engineering exercise demonstrating integrated U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy formations to establish and sustain Expeditionary Advanced Bases (EAB) and Maritime Domain Awareness.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Josh Flaugher, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 469, fires a GAU-19 machine gun off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 3, 2022. HMLA-469 conducted a Strike Coordination and Reconnaissance drill in order to increase proficiency and lethality throughout the squadron.

051021-A-8255A-088. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Baghdad Country: Iraq (IRQ)

BALTIC SEA (Aug. 29, 2022) U.S. Navy Gunners Mate Seaman Ashanti Batista, assigned to the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), loads an M240B machine gun in the Baltic Sea, Aug 29, 2022. Gunston Hall, assigned to the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, 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.

An FBI Hostage Rescue Team member is lowered from a H-60M Black Hawk helicopter to a maritime vessel during FBI HRT search and rescue training in the Charleston Harbor on Aug. 2, 2022, in Charleston, South Carolina. The HRT training was supported by local Law and maritime agencies while Priority 1 Air Rescue was involved in training the FBI personnel to familiarize them with rescue operations onboard the H-60M Black Hawk helicopter.

Marines come ashore in an LAV-25 light amphibious vehicle equipped with a tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided (TOW) missile launcher during Fleet Ex 1-90. Subject Operation/Series: FLEET EX 1-90 Country: Unknown

220912-N-XB010-2003 SEA OF JAPAN (Sept. 12, 2022) - Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) participate in a live-fire shoot with M-4 rifles on the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) flight deck in the Sea of Japan. New Orleans, part of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

120521-N-NJ145-183 GULF OF THAILAND (May 21, 2012) A Royal Thai navy Riverine Patrol Regiment and U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 1 participate in riverine operation exercises aboard a special operations craft-riverine (SOC-R) during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2012. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance force readiness.

U.S. Marines with 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, prepare to dive during Exercise Caribbean Coastal Warrior in Savaneta, Aruba, June 15, 2022. This bilateral training exercise allows 2d Recon to expand its knowledge and proficiency when operating in littoral and coastal regions. Caribbean Coastal Warrior continues to increase global interoperability between the U.S. Marines and Marine Squadron Carib, Netherlands Marine Corps, as well as Caribbean Urban Warrior, an annual training evolution conducted on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

US Military deliver aid and relief supplies to the Maldives following tsunami

970628-M-2429G-002. Complete Scene Caption: Lance Corporal Monjaral from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit's MSPF (Maritime Special Purpose Force) Unit bears down on a target during a ship boarding drill on the USS Comstock (LSD-45) off the Southern California coast during Exercise KERNEL BLITZ '97. The weapon shown is the M203 40mm Grenade Launcher attached directly to the 5.56mm Colt M16A2 Assault Rifle. KERNEL BLITZ is a bi-annual Commander-in-CHIEF Pacific (CINCPAC) fleet training exercise (FLEETEX) focused on operational/tactical training of Commander, Third Fleet (C3F)/ I Marine Expeditionary Forces (MEF) and Commander, Amphibious Group 3 (CPG-3)/ 1ST Marine Division (MARDIV). KERNEL BLITZ is designed to enhance the training of Sailors and Marines in the complexities of brigade-size amphibious assault operations. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ Base: Uss Comstock (LSD 45) State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: USS COMST

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nathan Coakley with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, disembarks a Swedish Combat Boat 90 during exercise Archipelago Endeavor 22 (AE22), at Berga Naval Base, Sweden, Sept. 21, 2022. AE22 is an integrated field training exercise that increases operational capability and enhances strategic cooperation between the U.S. Marines and Swedish forces.

BANGKOK (Sept. 1, 2022) Royal Thai Marine Police (RTMP) and U.S. Naval Special Warfare (NSW) operators maneuver through the Chao Phraya River, Sept. 1, 2022. The exchange focused on water rescue and river policing where the RTMP prepared to conduct vessel search practical exercises. These exchanges enhance bilateral relations and contribute to regional stability with our Allies and partners, improving our ability to work together and build our collective strength. A strong, forward-looking U.S.-Thai defense alliance, rooted in history, helps foster a free and open Indo-Pacific region where all countries enjoy prosperity and peace.

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Jan. 11, 2020) Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Deason, left, from Trenton, New Jersey, monitors Ensign Kelsey Ohm, from Huron, Ohio, as she fires an M240 machine gun during a crew served weapons qualification aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64), Jan. 11, 2020. Carney, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its seventh forward deployed naval force patrol in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners as well as U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to paddle off the stern gate during a boat launch aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 19, 2022. Boat company launches from the well deck to provide the landing force 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. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to load a simulated casualty on a UH-1Y Huey helicopter 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.

BALTIC SEA (Aug 31, 2022) U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), practice speed reloading with the M4 carbine, Aug. 31, 2022. Gunston Hall, assigned to the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, 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. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit complete a combined amphibious operation with the Philippine Marine Corps alongside the Republic of Korea Marine Corps and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force as part of KAMANDAG 6 at Zambales, Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. 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.

PACIFIC OCEAN - A Navy boat launched from USS New Orleans Aug. 14 carries maritime raid force members of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit to a vessel the forces assault element later boarded during counter-piracy and counter-terrorism training miles from Southern California's San Clemente Island. The unit began its first sea-based exercise since becoming a complete Marine air ground task force in May. (Lance Cpl. Justin R. Stein)

U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and United Arab Emirates soldiers pull aboard a simulated man overboard during a bilateral training mission at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 13, 2022. The training focused on developing the intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance capabilities of the UAE service members.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Jan. 14, 2013) Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Jose Orpilla, center, fires a .50-caliber machine gun as line coaches Gunner's Mate 3rd Class John Bransom, left, and Gunner's Mate Cody Hayden supervise during a live fire training exercise on the fantail of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). George H.W. Bush is conducting training and carrier qualifications in the Atlantic Ocean.

220913-N-N3764-1004CARIBBEAN SEA - (Sept. 13, 2022) - Chief Select Gunners Mate Zach Morrill loads an M2A1 .50-caliber machine gun during a crew serve weapons shoot aboard the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Billings (LCS 15) in the Caribbean Sea, Sept. 13, 2022. Billings is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force Souths mission, which includes counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

031208-N-2669M-012. Base: Ash Shubayah Country: Kuwait (KWT)

ARABIAN SEA (May 4, 2013) Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU) disembark a landing craft utility (LCU) and enter the well deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50). Carter Hall is a part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 26th MEU, is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, recover their combat rubber raiding craft on to the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD-20) in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 8, 2023. The Marines conducted a boat raid exercise that increased their proficiency to secure contested terrain and allow friendly forces to advance from ship to shore. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the 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.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, secures 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.

ST BERNARD, LA - Louisiana National Guardsmen of 2225th Multi-Role Bridge Company, 205th Engineer Battalion, constructs a 300 foot temporary wharf that will be used to load boats with booms and supplies at Campos Marina located in St Bernard, La on May 6, 2010

A U.S. Marine with 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII disembarks a landing craft, utility in the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) after completing an amphibious assault during exercise UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 16, 2022. The multinational amphibious assault was one of the culminating events of UNITAS LXIII. UNITAS is the worlds longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that focuses on enhancing interoperability among multiple nations and joint forces during littoral and amphibious operations in order to build on existing regional partnerships and create new enduring relationships that promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the U.S. Southern Commands area of responsibility.

U.S. Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (26th MEU(SOC)) depart from Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) during the 26th MEU(SOC) exercise named Odyssey Encore, Volos, Greece, Jan. 8, 2024. The 26th MEU(SOC) readiness sustainment exercise enhances the units operational capabilities as an expeditionary crisis response force and provides an opportunity for the 26th MEU(SOC) to conduct advanced integrated expeditionary operations and live-fire training with both the 32nd and 24th Marine Brigades in Greece. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th 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.

A Luxembourg soldier stands guard on the beach while other members of his group offload a tank from a utility landing craft. The equipment and men are a part of exercise Alloy Express. Subject Operation/Series: ALLOY EXPRESS Base: Route E-6 Country: Norway (NOR)

Navy SEAL frogmen with complete diving gear and weapons in the water.

Cavalry troopers from Ace Troop, 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division conduct water insertion and foot patrols through Bellows Field Beach Park Aug. 24, 2022. The joint amphibious insertion with Marines was part of a two-week multi-echelon exercise designed to validate Brigade Capability Set Integration (CSI), train and certify lethal companies, troops and batteries, and exercise the Warriors sustainment capacity in a dynamic and complex battlefield against a reacting enemy.

070312-M-2740R-060. Base: USS Batann (LHD 5) Scene Major Command Shown: 26TH MEU

A soldier assigned to the 50th Engineer Company, 1ST Platoon, Camp Laguardia, Republic of Korea, ducks as a pontoon bridge section unloaded from an M945 Bridge Transporter, splashes into the Imjin River, ROK, during a bridge building training exercise on Oct. 22, 1998. Many of the participants in todays exercise are officers participating in accordance with the US Army Officer Professional Development Program, a program designed to improve team building and soldiery. Subject Operation/Series: KOREA CD Base: Imjin River Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

Special forces men paddling Army kayak across the river at twilight.

PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea (April 18, 2017) A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU), introduces Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF) service members to the AAV-P7 Amphibious Assault Vehicle during a tour aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Comstock (LSD 45) as part of a theater security cooperation (TSC) engagement. Over the course of the TSC, the 11th MEU and PGNDF conducted bilateral training, which consisted of entry control and vehicle check point procedures, escalation of force tactics, personnel searches, urban patrolling, VIP escorts, field communications, and weapons maintenance.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, rehearse for a bilateral amphibious landing during KAMANDAG 6, Philippine Sea, Oct. 6, 2022. The bilateral amphibious landing will be a combined interoperability event 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. Marine Corps Cpl. Samuel Johnson, a scout sniper with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31 Marine Expeditionary Unit surveys the area out of a SH-60 Sea Hawk during an aerial live fire exercise in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 20, 2022. The scout snipers conducted the live fire to hone their skills and maintain proficiency in any environment. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli ARG 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.

DN-SC-85-00974. Base: USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

US Navy (USN) Construction Mechanic Construction Apprentice (CMCA) Michael Klinegardner, a Beach MASTER with Unit 1, guides a Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1634 during an offload exercise at the Inner Apra Harbor on the island of Guam, in support of Exercise TANDEM THRUST 2003. Subject Operation/Series: TANDEM THRUST 2003 State: Guam Country: Northern Mariana Islands (MNP)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, provide overwatch for a visit, board, search, and seizure exercise on the USS Miguel Keith (ESB-5) in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 11, 2023. The VBSS exercise refined Marines skills in maritime interdiction operations by incorporating real world scenarios. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the 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.

Finnish Marines assigned to the Nyland Brigade embark the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), during a port visit in Harstad, Norway, before participating in exercise Steadfast Defender 24, Feb. 26, 2024. Steadfast Defender 2024, NATOs largest exercise in decades, will demonstrate NATOs ability to deploy forces rapidly from across the Alliance to reinforce the defense of Europe. Navy

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard Rusnok, the commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, shows Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Vice Adm. Akira Saito, the commander in chief of Self-Defense Fleet, JMSDF, airfield characteristics of MCAS Iwakuni during an installation tour March 24, 2023. Saito toured MCAS Iwakuni to better understand the capabilities and strategic importance of the air station and discuss how American and Japanese systems can work together to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.

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