Military Watercraft Operations

Images of military personnel training and operating inflatable boats and amphibious vehicles in maritime exercises and operations.

Man in training aiming the forward gun on an inflatable boat in San Diego, California.

120131-N-QM601-262 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Jan. 31, 2012) Sailors aboard a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) head toward the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Laramie (T-AO 203) as part of an enhanced visit, board, search and seizure training evolution during Certification Exercise. New York is underway for Certification Exercise, the final qualification for the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) and the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group before their scheduled spring deployment.

Man in training aiming the forward gun on an inflatable boat in San Diego, California.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigate in a combat rubber raiding craft during 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.

PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 30, 2020) Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) prepare for combat rubber raiding craft rehearsals off the stern gate of the well deck aboard the Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42). Germantown, part of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st MEU team, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serves as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

110521-N-YM590-062STRAIT OF GIBRALTAR (May 21, 2011) Sailors assigned to the small caliber action team (SCAT) aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) stand watch on the ship's forecastle while transiting the Strait of Gibraltar. Anzio is deployed as part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

Amphibious assault vehicles (AAV) driven by Marines from the 3rd USMC Division, Okinawa, slowly make their way toward an isolated beach near Vladivostok for cross training operations between U.S. and Russian AAV battalions as part of the combined American-Russian disaster relief exercise. The Ropucha II class tank landing ship BDK-007 is in the background. Subject Operation/Series: COOPERATION FROM THE SEA Base: Vladivostok State: Siberia Country: Russia (RUS)

Combat controllers from the Special Tactics Training Squadron take boats out to the rally point before a 2,000-meter swim performed at the Soundside on Hurlburt Field, Fla., Oct. 6, 2011. STTS Instructs follow closely using the boat, and have one instructor in the water to ensure proper safety precautions are established during swim exercises.

240203-M-IU565-2039 MUHAMMAD AL AHMED NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Feb. 3, 2024) Partner nation service members conduct a visit, board, search and seizure demonstration during exercise Eager Defender 24 onboard Muhammad Al Ahmed Naval Base, Kuwait, Feb. 3. Eager Defender 24 is the capstone in a series of bilateral exercises between Kuwait and U.S. naval forces, focused on enhancing mutual capabilities and interoperability in maritime security operations. Marine Corps photo)

U.S. Navy Sailors, assigned to Beachmaster Unit 1, ground guide a vehicle while testing a submersible matting system during Project Convergence - Capstone 4 at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 29, 2024. The Sailors were experimenting with the Submersible matting to create a stable roadway system across the littoral zone to bridge the gap between low and high tide at the beach.PC-C4 is an U.S. Army hosted joint and multinational experiment that will inform the integration of modernization capabilities and formations at multiple echelons in the future operating environment. Army

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Oct. 26, 2012) Sailors assigned to Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 2 conduct patrol operations in the Arabian Sea. RIVRON-2 is deployed with Commander, Task Group (CTG) 56.7, which provides maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. Americas Sailors are Warfighters, a fast and flexible force deployed worldwide. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting.

A Soldier from 11th Engineer Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division (ROK-US Combined Division) leaps from boat to bridge section to assist with assembling bridge bays to cross a river, Republic of Korea, May 18, 2022; the 11th Engineer Battalion and 4th Squadron, 70th Armor Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade, 1st Armored Division worked together to construct an Improved Ribbon Bridge (IRB) to allow the crossing by M1A2 Abrams tanks and M2 Bradly Infantry fighting Vehicles. Soldiers from across the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team Ready First, 1st Armored Division (the current 2nd Infantry Division (ROK-US Combined Division) rotational brigade) as well as other units from 2ID participated in the Warrior Ready Strike training exercise to increase their proficiency, learn about operating in the Republic of Korea, and re-affirm the commitment to the ROK-US Alliance.

U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) as well as Sailors from the USS Ashland, launch Combat Rubber Raiding Craft out of the well deck of the USS Ashland, at sea, March 15, 2014. Marines and Sailors launched and recovered the Combat Rubber Raiding Crafts as part of Certification Exercise.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) leave the Guided-Missel Destroyer U.S.S. Hopper (DDG 70) near Oahu, Hawaii, Oct. 26, 2022. U.S.S. Hopper and crew are participating in Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) rotation 23-01, alongside the 25th Infantry Division, and elements from the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). JPMRC rotations allow Army forces to rehearse strategic movements and maneuvers, integrate with allies and partners, and increase the readiness of the Joint Force in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S Marine Corps Cpl. Trent Simmons, a crew chief with Aviation Combat Element, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires an M240-B machine gun from the back of an MV-22 Osprey during a live-fire exercise over the Atlantic Ocean, June 23, 2022. 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.

120130-N-YX920-166CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (Jan. 30, 2012)Sailors currently assigned to Riverine Squadron 2 mans their weapons while on a reconnaissance mission during Exercise Bold Alligator 2012, the largest amphibious exercise in the past 10 years. Bold Alligator represents the Navy and Marine Corps' revitalization of the full range of amphibious operations. The exercise focuses on today's fight with today's forces, while showcasing the advantages of seabasing. This exercise will take place Jan. 30-Feb.12 , 2012, afloat and ashore in and around Virginia and North Carolina.

Philippine and U.S. Marines conduct an amphibious landing 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.

Members of Reserve Special Boat Unit 22 maneuver a light assault boat near Rodman Naval Station during canal defense exercise Kindle Liberty '86. Subject Operation/Series: KINDLE LIBERTY '86 Base: Panama Canal Country: Panama (PAN)

EAST CHINA SEA (Aug. 23, 2016) Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU), maneuver amphibious assault vehicles in the waters around the Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42). Germantown, attached to Expeditionary Strike Group 7, is underway in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operation in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific.

060225-N-7130B-096. Country: Persian Gulf

221007-N-XB010-1004 Philippine Sea (Oct. 7, 2022) -Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) disembark from the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) stern gate in combat ready rubber crafts (CRRCs). 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.

220912-N-XB010-2007 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.

110730-N-GH121-081BLACK SEA (July 30, 2011) Marines assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU) launch amphibious assault vehicles from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41) as part of Summer Storm 2011. Summer Storm is a combined amphibious assault exercise with Romania. Whidbey Island is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th 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.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 16, 2022) - Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class Steven Gibson, right, fires a .50-caliber machine gun during a live-fire exercise aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78), April 16, 2022. Porter, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is currently underway in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), talk during a helocast at Kin Blue, Okinawa, Japan, Apr. 27, 2022. 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. Navy Sailors, assigned to Beachmaster Unit 1, conduct a series of training events during Project Convergence - Capstone 4 at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 29, 2024. The San Diego-based unit is just one of several units taking part in PC-C4 to integrate capabilities and formations at multiple echelons to operate in the future operating environment. PC-C4 is the largest, two-phase experiment to date and assess how technology can enhance cross-domain military operations and unified strategic approaches involving partners from various nations and joint services. Army

120611-N-ON468-454PALANGA, Lithuania (June 11, 2012) Sgt. Christopher Judy, second from left, leads U.S. Marines onto a beach with the Polish navy transport mine-layer OPR Krakow (823) in the background during a Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2012 amphibious operation exercise. This is the 40th iteration of BALTOPS, a maritime exercise intended to improve interoperability with partner nations by conducting realistic training at sea.

U.S. Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and U.S. Sailors assigned to Assault Craft Detachment, USS Boxer (LHD 4) conduct visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) training in the Gulf of Aden, Feb. 1, 2014. The 13th MEU is deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group as a theater reserve and crisis response force throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility

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.

120204-N-GF386-279 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 4, 2012) Marines aboard combat rubber raiding crafts conduct operations during Bold Alligator 2012. Bold Alligator is the largest naval amphibious exercise in the past 10 years and represents the Navy and Marine Corps' revitalization of the full range of amphibious operations. The exercise focuses on today's fight with today's forces, while showcasing the advantages of seabasing. The exercise will take place Jan. 30 through Feb. 12, 2012, afloat and ashore in and around Virginia and North Carolina. #BA12

SEA OF JAPAN (Sept. 8, 2020) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) clear the deck during a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) drill. Mustin is underway conducting operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific while assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navys largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleets principal surface force.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire an M240B machine gun at a notional target during a defense of the amphibious task force live-fire aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 2, 2022. DATF scenarios 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 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 CORPS TRAINING AREA BELLOWS, Hawaii (July 18, 2022) U.S. Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division and Australian Army Soldiers launch combat rubber raiding craft during helo-cast training for Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, July 18. 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.

120207-N-MM996-234ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 7, 2012) Marines from the 4th Amphibious Assault Battalion conduct an amphibious assault vehicle debark splash from the Military Sealift Command container roll-on/roll-off ship SS PFC Eugene A. Obregon (T-AK 3006) during Exercise Bold Alligator 2012. Bold Alligator is the largest amphibious exercise in the past 10 years and represents the Navy and Marine Corps' revitalization of the full range of amphibious operations. The exercise focuses on today's fight with today's forces, while showcasing the advantages of seabasing. The exercise will take place Jan. 30 through Feb. 12, 2012 afloat and ashore in and around Virginia and North Carolina. #BA12

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 31, 2022) Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Annette Pradia, from El Paso, Texas, reloads a .50 caliber machine gun under the supervision of Chief Gunners Mate Christopher Lamotte, right, from Los Angeles, during a service weapon live-fire exercise on the aft missile deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A Marine M-60 main battle tank is driven ashore from Utility Landing Craft 1660 (LCU-1660) during the NATO Exercise Northern Wedding '82. A folding snorkel is attached to the tank. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN WEDDING '82 Country: Denmark (DNK)

Hellenic Special Forces members with Z Amphibious Raiding Squadron assault a beach with combat rubber reconnaissance crafts for a combined forces event during exercise Alexander the Great 2022, Skyros, Greece, May 17, 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.

DN-ST-89-01856. Country: Unknown

U.S. Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, disembark from combat rubber raiding craft during an Expeditionary Operations Training Group amphibious raid course at Del Mar Boat Basin on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 21, 2022. During the course, the Marines gained proficiency in small boat operations and tactics to increase their capability to operate in a littoral environment.

An AAVP-7 amphibious assault vehicle makes its way through the surf as it leaves the beach to return to the tank landing ship USS FAIRFAX COUNTY (LST 1193) during UNITAS XXV, an Exercise involving forces from the US and six South American nations. Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS XXV Base: Nas, Roosevelt Roads State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

110815-N-LY640-138ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 15, 2011) Rear Adm. Nora Tyson, commander of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 2, fires a .50-caliber machine gun from a MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9. CSG-2 is embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN77), which is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility on its first operational deployment conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn.

Marines with 3rd tracks, in an Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAVP7A1), prepare to embark on the USS MOUNT VERNON (LSD-39) for Kernel Blitz '99. Kernel Blitz '99 was a amphibious assault beach landing conducted primarily by 1ST Marine Division. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ '99 Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Sept. 13, 2012) Airman Davonta Carter, from Jacksonville, Fla., fires an M-4 carbine during a live-fire exercise aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

110223-N-7334G-538RED SEA (Feb. 23, 2011) Electronics Technician 3rd Class Brian Campbell, assigned to the guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55), climbs up a ladder from a rigid-hull inflatable boat while conducting visit, board, search and seizure team training. Leyte Gulf is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility to conduct maritime security operations.

A U.S. Navy Landing Craft Air-Cushioned, assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), prepares to board the Wasp-Class Amphibious Assault Ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) while underway during Amphibious Squadron/MEU Integrated Training (PMINT), Jan. 23, 2023. PMINT is the first at-sea period in the intermediate stage of the MEUs Pre-deployment Training Program; it aims to increase interoperability and build relationships between Marines and Sailors.

220718-N-NA571-1053 NAVAL AMPHIBIOUS BASE CORONADO, Calif. (July 18, 2022) Sailors, attached to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 (ACB 1), flex to conjoin Improved Navy Lighterage System (INLS) craft while underway for floating causeway training operations in waters near NAB Coronado, July 18, 2022. Floating causeway is the combined utilization of INLS craft to create a temporary floating pier to provide logistical support to an area of operations. ACB 1 conducts ship-to-shore transportation and construction support as a part of joint amphibious operations around the world.

DN-SC-89-03252. Base: Malabo Country: Equatorial Guinea (GNQ)

U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit's Maritime Raid Force board a gas and oil platform during maritime interoperability training off the coast of Santa Barbara, Calif., Jan. 16, 2015.

220913-N-VJ326-1203 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sep. 13, 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. 13, 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.

Men in training driving by an aircraft carrier in an inflatable boat with guns in San Diego, California.

RED SEA (May 25, 2013) A landing craft air cushion (LCAC) from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 approaches the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Kearsarge is the flagship for the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, step forward and prepare to fire their rifles during a deck shoot aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 10, 2022. The Combat Marksmanship Program is designed to sustain a units 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.

An American LCAC Amphibious Vehicle heads back to sea after coming on shore at Jongsa-dong beach in Republic of Korea, Oct. 31, 1998. The LCAC Amphibious vehicles landed on the beach to drop off US Marine troops and equipment in support of Foal Eagle '98. Foal Eagle '98 is a deployment exercise that takes place once a year in Korea. Subject Operation/Series: FOAL EAGLE '98KOREA CD Base: Jongsa-Dong Beach Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

Lebanese Marine Commando directs boats while conducting Over the Beach operations in Aqaba, Jordan during Exercise Eager Lion Sept. 8, 2022. Exercise Eager Lion is considered the capstone event of the broader U.S. military relationship with the Jordanian Armed Forces, one of U.S. Central Commands strongest and most reliable partners in the region, leading the way for security and stability using conventional and unconventional scenarios to activate a combined joint task force. The exercise underscores the United States commitment to partners in the Middle East and joint defense against hybrid threats by state and non-state actors. Approximately 1,700 U.S. service members, 2,200 Jordanian Armed Forces, and 591 coalition personnel from 28 other partner nations are participating or observing the multilateral military training exercise, which was scheduled for 2021, but postponed due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

A US Navy Utility Landing Craft (LCU) loaded with medical vehicles and supplies for a simulated disaster-relief exercise follows a Russian Ropucha II Class (Type B 23) Landing ship, Tank during Exercise COOPERATION FROM THE SEA '96, near Vladivostok, Russia. The exercise is a joint venture between US and Russian naval forces designed to improve disaster-relief operations and to further understanding between the two nations. Subject Operation/Series: COOPERATION FROM THE SEA '96 Country: Unknown

PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 27, 2021) A Sailor with Bravo Company, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 2, fires an M2 .50-caliber machine gun on a Mark VI patrol boat during a live-fire exercise in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 27, 2021. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Amphibious Squadron 11 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.

Marines exit from an LCM-8 Mod-1 mechanized landing craft of Assault Craft Unit 2 (ACU-2) at Onslow Beach during Exercise Solid Shield '85. Subject Operation/Series: SOLID SHIELD '85 Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

HWAJIN-RI BEACH, Republic of Korea (March 29, 2023) - Republic of Korea Marines provide security during an amphibious assault training exercise for Ssang Yong 23. Celebrating the 70th anniversary of the U.S. - ROK Alliance, Ssang Yong 2023 strengthens the Alliance through bilateral, joint training, contributing toward the ROK's combined defense of the Korean Peninsula and increasing the readiness of the U.S. -ROK Alliance.

030816-A-5493S-012. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Tigris River, Baghdad Country: Iraq (IRQ)

A Marine beachmaster watches as utility landing craft 1644 (LCU 1644) lands at Green Beach during a multinational peacekeeping operation. Base: Beirut Country: Lebanon (LBN)

Crew members of the of the submarine tender USS HOLLAND (AS-32) take part in a live fire qualification drill with the Mark 19 belt-feed 40mm grenade launching machine gun while at sea between Guam and Sasebo, Japan. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

Members of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 40 (NMCB-40) stand in the bed of a truck during the multinational relief effort Operation Restore Hope. Subject Operation/Series: RESTORE HOPE Country: Somalia (SOM)

Sailors and Soldiers embarked aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) watch as a Japanese landing craft air cushion (LCAC) passes during a Pass and Review demonstration with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force ship JDS Kunisaki (LST 4003) on July 5, 2010. Mercy is transiting the South China Sea en route to Indonesia in support of Pacific Partnership 2010, the fifth in a series of annual U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian and civic assistance endeavors to strengthen regional partnerships.

U. S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Units Maritime Interception Operations (MIO) assault force attach a cave ladder to HNS Aris using a telescopic pole during bottom up training at Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, Nov. 11, 2010. The MIO assault force went through a one-week course at the NATO Maritime Interception Operations Training Center in tactics to board a suspect vessel.

U.S. Marine with Amphibious Reconnaissance Platoon, 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 15, 2022. Conducting these training operations brings the ARP and Battalion Landing Team 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.

110216-M-5402S-105PUERTO BARRIOS, Guatemala (Feb. 15, 2011) Amphibious assault vehicle crewman Lance Cpl. Nathan E. Danford, assigned to Security Cooperation Task Force, Ground Combat Element, navigates an amphibious assault vehicle to the Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD-44). Gunston Hall is supporting Amphibious Southern Partnership Station 2011, an annual deployment of U.S. ships to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility in the Caribbean and Latin America.

A US Marine P7A1 amphibious assault vehicle from the IIth Marine Expeditionary Force makes its way to the beach during a UNITAS 37 96 training exercise held off the coast of Chile. UNITAS is an annual operation in which a US Navy task group conduct combined exercises with participating navies. Subject Operation/Series: Unitas 37-96 Country: Chile (CHL)

MARINE CORPS TRAINING AREA BELLOWS, Hawaii (July 18, 2022) An Australian Army Soldier starts the engine to launch a combat rubber raiding craft during helo-cast training as part of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, July 18. 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. Marine Corps Sgt. Andrew Schumann, a machine gunner assigned to Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), stands watch during a transit through the Strait of Gibraltar aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), July 26, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, are 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.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 12, 2022) A Landing craft, air cushion (LCAC), assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5, conducts amphibious operations with Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) 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.

Marines from Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment train for close quarters combat with M16A2s equipped with an M203 grenade launcher on the flight deck of the USS PONCE (LPD-15) during its transatlantic voyage. Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) Liberia, a II Marine Expeditionary Force unit from Camp Lejeune, NC, will take over the duties of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit at the US Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia. The SPMAGTF is commanded by COL. T. L. Corwin. Subject Operation/Series: ASSURED RESPONSE Base: USS Ponce (LPD 15)

Armed Navy SEALs attacking their enemy while on a boat.

U.S. Navy Sailors, assigned to Beachmaster Unit 1, operate a Landing Craft Utility to unload vehicles during a series of experiments as part of Project Convergence - Capstone 4 at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 29, 2024. The San Diego-based unit is just one of several units taking part in PC-C4 to integrate capabilities and formations at multiple echelons to operate in the future operating environment. PC-C4 is the largest, two-phase experiment to date and assess how technology can enhance cross-domain military operations and unified strategic approaches involving partners from various nations and joint services. Army

DJIBOUTI (Sept. 8, 2018) Engineman Fireman Cory Durenberger, assigned to Beach Master Unit (BMU) 1, signals a landing craft utility while participating in Theater Amphibious Combat Rehearsal (TACR) 18. Led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, TACR integrates U.S. Navy and Marine Corps assets to practice and rehearse a range of critical combat-related capabilities available to U.S. Central Command, both afloat and ashore, to promote stability and security in the region. U.S. 5th Fleet and coalition assets are participating in numerous simultaneous exercises as part of the greater Theater Counter Mine and Maritime Security Exercise to ensure maritime stability and security in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Julian Larson, a scout sniper with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31 Marine Expeditionary Unit fires on a target 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.

Republic of Korea (ROK) marines storm Tok Suk-Ri Beach, ROK during an amphibious assault exercise Oct. 31, 1998. The assault was part of the ROK Marines participation in Foal Eagle '98. Subject Operation/Series: FOAL EAGLE '98KOREA CD Base: Jongsa-Dong Beach Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 15, 2013) Reconnaissance Marines from Battalion Landing Team 1-4 of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (13th MEU) conduct combat rubber raiding craft operations from the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). Boxer is conducting amphibious squadron and marine expeditionary unit integrated training.

MINDELO, Cape Verde (Jan. 14, 2013) Chief Master-at-Arms Joe Nunes, center, a maritime civil affairs instructor, guides a member of the Cape Verdian coast guard into proper formation during boarding team training aboard the Cape Verdian patrol boat NP Guardian (P511) during Africa Partnership Station (APS). APS is an international security cooperation initiative, facilitated by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, aimed at strengthening global maritime partnerships through training and collaborative activities in order to improve maritime safety and security in Africa.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Teumer, an infantry squad leader with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires an M240B machine gun during a defense of the amphibious task force live-fire aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 2, 2022. DATF scenarios 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 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.

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion inserts Marines with 1st Battalion, 3d Marines while conducting an air assault alongside Philippine Marines during Balikatan 22 in Claveria, Philippines, March 31, 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 shared experiences. Balikatan, Tagalog for shoulder-to-shoulder,’ is a longstanding bilateral exercise between the Philippines and the United States highlighting the deep-rooted partnership between both countries. Balikatan 22 is the 37th and largest-ever iteration of the exercise. BK22 coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation and a shared commitment to advancing peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The S-Frigate Hr.Ms. Jan van Brakel (1983-2001) in April 1990.

220505-N-ED646-0171- GDYNIA, Poland (May 5, 2022) Sonar Technician 3rd Class Cahill Eckardt mans a .50-caliber machine gun as Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG 107) prepares to pull into Gdynia, Poland for a scheduled port visit, May 5, 2022. Gravely is deployed with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., Allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa.

STRAIT OF MALACCA (July 2, 2022) - Gunners Mate Seaman Nathaniel Winters, from Peru, Indiana, stands watch during sea and anchor detail as the Emory S Land-class submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) departs Singapore July 2, 2022. Frank Cable is currently on patrol conducting expeditionary maintenance and logistics to support national security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

120311-N-UZ986-041ARABIAN SEA (March 11, 2012) Landing craft air cushion assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5 approach the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). New Orleans and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit are deployed as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

A U.S. Navy Sailor fires a .50 caliber machine gun during a live fire exercise aboard USS Green Bay (LPD 20), Philippine Sea, Jan. 27, 2022. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is operating aboard the 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 to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Yvonne Iwae)

A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366 (HMH-366), 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, hovers over water during a helocast water insertion training on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 26, 2022. Helocasting is an airborne technique used by small unit special operations forces to insert into hard-to-reach areas via bodies of water. This high-risk training prepares the MSPF for the upcoming 26th MEU deployment.

A Republic of Korea Forces Type 88 K1 Main Battle Tank unloads from Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1627, along with U. S. soldiers from Okinawa, Japan. The combined amphibious beach assault at Tak San Ri Beach near Pohang, is in support of Exercise FOAL EAGLE 2000. FOAL EAGLE is the largest Joint and Combined field training drill conducted annually in South Korea, running from October 25th to November 3rd. About 25,000 U.S. troops (Not shown) will take part in the drill, including active duty, Reserve and National Guard troops from bases in the United States and elsewhere in the Pacific. The exercise demonstrates U.S. and South Korean military cooperation. Subject Operation/Series: FOAL EAGLE 2000 Base: Tak San Ri Country: Republic Of Korea (ROK)

KLAIPEDA, Lithuania (June 16, 2019) U.S. Marines assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) wade ashore from a landing craft, utility during an amphibious assault for exercise Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2019. BALTOPS is the premier annual maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region, marking the 47th year of one of the largest exercises in Northern Europe enhancing flexibility and interoperability among allied and partner nations.

HAT YAO BEACH, Thailand (June 10, 2013) U.S. Marines attached to 2nd Amphibian Assault Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conduct amphibious assault training with Royal Thai marines during exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2013. More than 1,200 Sailors and Marines are participating in CARAT Thailand. CARAT is a series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. Navy and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Timor Leste.

970626-M-9368G-001. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ Base: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 3d AABn, 1ST Mar Div

U.S. Navy Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) team members execute a high speed turn in a light assault boat during canal defense exercise Kindle Liberty'86. U.S. Navy Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) team members execute a high speed turn in a light assault boat during canal defense exercise Kindle Liberty '86.

AQABA, Jordan - Operators with the U.S. Naval Special Warfare Group and Lebanese Marine Commandos prepare to conduct over-the-beach operations in Aqaba, Jordan during Exercise Eager Lion Sept. 8, 2022. Exercise Eager Lion is considered the capstone event of the broader U.S. military relationship with the Jordanian Armed Forces, one of U.S. Central Commands strongest and most reliable partners in the region, leading the way for security and stability using conventional and unconventional scenarios to activate a combined joint task force. The exercise underscores the United States commitment to partners in the Middle East and joint defense against hybrid threats by state and non-state actors. Approximately 1,700 U.S. service members, 2,200 Jordanian Armed Forces, and 591 coalition personnel from 28 other partner nations are participating or observing the multilateral military training exercise, which was scheduled for 2021, but postponed due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

221203-N-EB711-1003 ARABIAN GULF (Dec. 3, 2022) A Sailor shoots an M240B .50 caliber machine gun aboard guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) in the Arabian Gulf, Dec. 3. The Sullivans is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

BELLOWS AIR FORCE STATION, Hawaii (July 15, 2022) Royal Australian Navy Sailors from the Deployable Geospatial Survey Team prepare a fly away survey kit during a beach surface survey training as part of 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 Air Force Corporal John Solomon)

DM-ST-89-07621. Base: Naval Amphib Base, Little Creek State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

221210-N-N3764-0002CARIBBEAN SEA - (Dec. 10, 2022) - Gunners Mate 2nd Class Zachary Lockman from Lakeland, Fla., makes the M240 machine gun ready during a sea and anchor evolution on the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Milwaukee (LCS 5) after a port visit at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay Dec. 10, 2022. Milwaukee is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations under Destroyer Squadron 40 and Commander, Task Force 45 with a mission set of performing combined naval operations, exercises, and partnership building, and acts as a service provider to Joint Interagency Task Force - South in support of counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

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