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.

An USAF airman uses de-icing equipment to de-ice a C-130 at Ramstein AB, Germany. An USAF airman uses de-icing equipment to de-ice a C-130 at Ramstein AB, Germany.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 15, 2013) Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Patrick Canady, left, and Aviation Maintenance Technician 3rd Class Joseph Guzman fire an M240 machine gun during weapons familiarization training on the fantail of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson is underway conducting Precision Approach Landing System (PALS) and flight deck certifications.

Virginia Beach, Virginia, July 21, 2012 - Navy SEALs participate in the capabilities exercise portion of the 43rd annual Underwater Demolition Team (UDT)-Sea, Air and Land (SEAL) East Coast Reunion at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story.

040701-M-0374B-001. Base: USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49)

DM-ST-88-07804. Subject Operation/Series: BRIGHT STAR Base: El Hamman Country: Egypt (EGY)

A U.S. Marine assigned to the Ground Combat Element, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepares to board a CH-53E Super Stallion while on the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. 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. Marine Corps

Ace Troop, 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, conducts amphibious infiltration mission with the 3rd Radio Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force recon team on Bellows Air Force Base at Waimanalo, Hawaii, on Aug. 24, 2022. Conducting these joint training exercises enhances combined interoperability between the U.S. military forces. The training advances partners abilities to address complex and future contingencies throughout the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Earl, from Woodbridge, Virginia assigned to Task Force 61/2, participates in an amphibious training evolution with the Hellenic Special Forces during exercise Alexander the Great 22, Greece, May 9, 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.

DM-ST-88-07809. Subject Operation/Series: BRIGHT STAR Base: El Hamman Country: Egypt (EGY)

Soldiers from the 130th Engineer Brigade Hook up their boats to a floating raft section to steer it up the Sava river near Slavonski Brod during Operation JOINT ENDEAVOR. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT ENDEAVOR Country: Bosnia And/I Herzegovina (BIH)

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, operate combat rubber raiding crafts at Kin Red Harbor, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 21, 2022. Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force Expeditionary Operations Training Group Amphibious Raids Branch designed a littoral maneuver training package for 1st Bn., 2nd Marines, to prepare for future operations in littoral environments. 1st Bn., 2nd Marines, is forward deployed to III MEF under the unit deployment program.

190213-N-DX072-1184 GULF OF THAILAND (Feb. 13, 2019) Assault amphibious vehicles (AAV) assigned to 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) approach the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay, part of the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, with embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), is in Thailand to participate in Exercise Cobra Gold 2019. Cobra Gold is a multinational exercise co-sponsored by Thailand and the United States that is designed to advance regional security and effective response to crisis contingencies through a robust multinational force to address common goals and security commitments in the Indo-Pacific region.

010517-F-2022C-003. Subject Operation/Series: TANDEM THRUST 01 Base: USS Essex (LHD 2) Country: Australia (AUS)

221006-N-ZZ999-0087 GROTON, Conn. (October 6, 2022) - Petty Officer 2nd Class Peter Garafalo stands rear watch on a security patrol boat assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) EIGHT in the Thames River during routine operations in Groton, Conn., Oct. 6. MSRONs primary mission is to provide force protection of strategic shipping and naval vessels operating in the inshore and coastal areas, anchorages and harbors from bare beach to sophisticated port facilities.

120824-N-AC887-006 MANDA BAY, Kenya (Aug. 24, 2012) Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus (SECNAV) rides with Sailors assigned to U.S. Africa Command as they conduct basic training evolutions from a rigid-hulled inflatable boat, near Manda Bay Naval Base in Kenya. While in Kenya Mabus met with senior leaders and Sailors and Marines to discuss security in the region and to thank them for their service and sacrifice.

DF-ST-86-08113. Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

100904-N-2811A-464PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 4, 2010) Capt. Paul O. Monger, commanding officer the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), fires a M240B machine gun during a live-fire exercise on the shipÕs fantail. Nimitz is conducting blue water operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of responsibility.

April 24, 2004 - Aviation Warfare Systems Operator fires a .50 caliber machine gun out of an SH-60B helicopter deployed aboard the USS Bulkeley (DDG-84) while participating in exercises aimed at fighting the global war on terrorism.

PACIFIC OCEAN (April 17, 2021) A Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC), attached to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5, transits the Pacific Ocean while conducting well deck operations with amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

220926-N-PC065-1021 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 26, 2022) - U.S. Navy Gunners Mate 2nd Class Jonathon Lockwood, top, assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), feeds 7.62 mm ammunition onto the feed tray of a M240B machine gun during live-fire training aboard the Arlington, Sept. 26, 2022. The Arlington is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and 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.

220912-N-XB010-2001 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.

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.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, wait for instruction 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Garret Weathers, a mortarman with Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), rests after a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP) exercise aboard the USS America (LHA 6), Philippine Sea, Jan. 26, 2022. Simulating events like personnel recovery allows the MEU to remain consistent as a quick-response force in readiness. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of America Amphibious Ready 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 photo by Lance Cpl. Cesar Ronaldo Alarcon)

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 20, 2022) Combined land forces from Australia, Malaysia and Sri Lanka embark Royal Australian Navy landing helicopter dock HMAS Canberra (L02) 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 Petty Officer Chris Szumlanski)

Fire Controlman 3rd Class Nicolas Handley, foreground, and Gunners Mate Seaman Kameron Scott, both assigned to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), participate in an M240 machine gun weapons shoot, while Normandy is underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, Nov. 2, 2022. The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is on its inaugural deployment conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

DN-ST-88-02733. Base: USS Inflicit (MSO 456)

U.S. Marines and Sailors with 2d Battalion, 2d Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, sit in a Brazilian troop carrier boat during a bilateral jungle training event in Manaus, Brazil, Sept. 26, 2022. These boats are used for insert, extract, and medical support along the many rivers and waterways of the jungle. U.S. partnerships in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibly are forged by shared challenges and common objectives. Bilateral training events such as jungle training develops and sustains relationships that improve the capacity of U.S. and partner nation maritime forces to achieve common desired effects. This exchange of knowledge between critical regional partners fosters interoperability, friendly relationships, and mutual cooperation.

Two Patrol Boat Light (PBL)S from Special Boat Unit (SBU-26) Panama, demonstrate amphibious insertion support techniques during Phase 6 of OPERATION UNITAS 37-96 conducted in Paraguay. SBU-26 and Marines from II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, conducted training exercises with marine and naval forces from Paraguay. Two Patrol Boat Light (PBL)ÕS from Special Boat Unit (SBU-26) Panama, demonstrate amphibious insertion support techniques during Phase 6 of OPERATION UNITAS 37-96 conducted in Paraguay. SBU-26 and Marines from II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, conducted training exercises with marine and naval forces from Paraguay.

Pacific Ocean, September 21, 2012 - Aviation Ordnanceman fires a M240 machine gun during a crew-served weapons shoot on the fantail aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis.

120531-N-CB621-011APRA HARBOR, Guam (May 31, 2012) The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770) pulls in to Apra Harbor for a brief port visit during it's six month deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility. Tucson is the 2nd ship of the Navy to bear the name of this Arizona city.

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii (July 28, 2022) Australian Army Soldier, Pvt. Frederick Shwartz from 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, secure a beach during a small boat operations activity on 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 Cpl. John Solomon)

220711-N-LC749-3611 BELLOWS AIR FORCE STATION, Hawaii (July 11, 2022) Mexican Naval Infantry Marines return with a combat rubber raiding craft during amphibious operations training with the Australian Army, Republic of Korea Navy Sailors and U.S. Marine Corps as part of 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 worlds 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 worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

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.

110612-N-XR557-179SOUTH CHINA SEA (June 12, 2011) An amphibious assault vehicle approaches the amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46), not pictured, after a Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Malaysia 2011 exercise. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance force readiness.

Marine Corporal Jerry Venable and Lance Corporal Travis Capps, Coxswains from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/2, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to beach their Zodiac boat during the Tunisian Amphibious Landing Exercise (Tunisian PHIBLEX). Country: Tunisia (TUN)

DN-ST-89-08752. Base: USS Raleigh (LPD 1)

220603-N-BR419-1523 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.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, maneuver combat rubber raiding crafts past the amphibious docking ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) during a boat raid exercise in the Philippine Sea, Feb 12. 2024. Marines with BLT 1/1 conducted the raid exercise to enhance proficiency when executing amphibious operations targeting strategic equipment or terrain. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations, 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. Marine Corps

120807-N-XK513-147 ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 7, 2012) Marines assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit participate in a weapons qualification course on the flight deck aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). New York is part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and 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 with Headquarters and Service and Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, and members of the Marine Infantry Regiment in French Polynesia, French Armed Forces, paddle combat rubber raiding crafts during the Aito Course in Taravao, Tahiti, French Polynesia, Sept. 5, 2022. The event provided a bilateral training opportunity between the French Armed Forces and Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. The nine Marines and Sailor from HQSVCBN participated in the bilateral training with the French Armed Forces in order to strengthen relationships with the region. The courses name comes from the Tahitian word aito. which means warrior.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, conduct a tactical movement to the next location during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 26, 2022. A MCCRE is designed to evaluate and certify a unit's comprehensive warfighting ability as the most ready and lethal unit within the division.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit Maritime Raid Force conduct a patrol during an amphibious raid alongside reconnaissance Marines from Dispen AL as part of Super Garuda Shield 22 on Singkep Island, Aug. 3, 2022. Garuda Shield is an annual combined and joint exercise between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. 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 premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

An Assault Craft Unit 5, air cushion landing craft delivers another M1A1 Abrams tank to shore. The tank, from 1ST Tank Battalion, 1ST Marine Division, is defending the beach until the task force is ready to breach the mine field. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ '97 Base: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220727-N-XB010-1003 EAST CHINA SEA (July 27, 2022) Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) fire a 9mm handgun during a gun shoot on the flight deck. New Orleans, part of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 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.

220407-N-UN585-1112 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 6, 2022) U.S. Marines assigned to Task Group 61/2.4 use a combat rubber raiding craft to deploy from the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71), April 6, 2022. Task Group 61/2.4 is part of Task Force 61/2, which will temporarily provide command and control support to the commander of U.S. Sixth fleet to synchronize Navy and Marine Corps units and capabilities already in theater, in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests. Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its 12th patrol 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.

120207-N-NL541-536ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 7, 2012) Amphibious assault vehicles assigned to 2nd Amphibious Assault Battalion, Delta Company, 1st and 3rd Platoons, maneuver into formation after disembarking from the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) into the Atlantic Ocean during a beach assault exercise as Wasp is underway to participate in exercise Bold Alligator. Bold Alligator, the largest naval amphibious exercise in the past 10 years, 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 through Feb. 12, 2012 afloat and ashore in and around Virginia and North Carolina. #BA12

221127-N-UL352-1349 ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 27, 2022) Quartermaster 3rd Class Mark Robles, assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black (DDG 119), fires an M240B machine gun during a live-fire weapons qualification shoot in the Arabian Gulf, Nov. 27. Delbert D. Black is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

HAT YAO BEACH, Thailand (June 9, 2013) U.S. Marines assigned to the 2nd Amphibian Assault Battalion, 2nd Marine Division,, watch members of their unit land on the beach to 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.

030205-M-7031A-011. Base: Marine Corps Base, Ternate State: Cavite Province Country: Philippines (PHL) Scene Major Command Shown: 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines

U.S. Marines with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII, board a Brazilian amphibious craft during exercise UNITAS LXIII in Rio de Janeiro, Sept. 8, 2022. UNITAS trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations through the execution of anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air, amphibious, and electronic warfare operations that enhance warfighting proficiency and increase interoperability among participating navy and marine forces.

Arabian Sea, July 19, 2011 - A sailor fires a .50-caliber machine gun during a live-fire exercise on the fantail aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77). George H.W. Bush is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility on its first operational deployment.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit Maritime Raid Force cary a combat rubber raiding craft alongside reconnaissance Marines from Dispen AL as part of Super Garuda Shield 22 aboard a landing craft assault cushion assigned to the U.S.S. Green Bay (LPD 20), Aug. 2, 2022. Garuda Shield is an annual combined and joint exercise between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. 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 premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

120727-N-AP176-095GULF OF OMAN (July 27, 2012) Sailors assigned to the Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Charlottetown (FFH 339) simulate apprehending Operations Specialist 2nd Class Jehovani Berrocales during a joint training exercise aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94). Nitze is deployed as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

060128-N-4374S-004. Base: USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

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.

060823-N-5148B-004. Base: Naval Amphibious Base, Coronado State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Two off-duty Marines relax on the edge of the flight deck of the amphibious transport dock USS RALEIGH (LPD-1). The RALEIGH and its embarked Marines are at sea in support of Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Northern Arabian Sea

A U.S. Marine with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, jumps from the brow during a swim call aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the South China Sea, Sept. 25, 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.

Philippine Marines secure a beach landing after inserting from an assault amphibious vehicle during a bilateral amphibious landing during Balikatan 22 at 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 of 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 iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of the U.S.-Philippine security cooperation.

040112-N-4614W-009. Country: Unknown

040416-A-9157N-003. Base: Las Calderas Country: Dominican Republic (DOM)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Philippine Marines post security during KAMANDAG 6, in Claveria, Philippines, Oct. 3, 2022. The two forces participated in a bilateral amphibious assault focused on increasing interoperability and shared understanding of tactics. 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.

Several small craft lead the way as the nuclear-powered strategic missile submarine USS CASIMIR PULASKI (SSBN 633), flanked by the large harbor tugs PADUCAH (YTB 758) and TOMAHAWK (YTB 789), heads for the open ocean at the completion of Exercise LANTCO0PEX 1-89. Subject Operation/Series: LANTCO0PEX 1-89 Base: Port Canaveral State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, carry a combat rubber raiding craft at Kin Red Harbor, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 21, 2022. Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force Expeditionary Operations Training Group Amphibious Raids Branch designed a littoral maneuver training package for 1st Bn., 2nd Marines, to prepare for future operations in littoral environments. 1st Bn., 2nd Marines, is forward deployed to III MEF under the unit deployment program.

030408-M-3138H-026. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Baghdad Country: Iraq (IRQ)

220802-M-JX780-1033 CARIBBEAN SEA - (Aug. 2, 2022) - Electronics Technician 3rd Class Rome Mcdonald, left, speaks into a PRC-152 handheld radio, while Master-At-Arms 2nd Class Kianna Shipp mans an M2 heavy machine gun during a ship self-defense drill aboard the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Burlington (T-EPF-10), Aug. 2, 2022. Burlington is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support expeditionary maintenance to deployed littoral combat ships operating in the region and conduct theater security cooperation engagements to maintain access, enhance interoperability and build enduring partnerships in the Caribbean, Central and South America.

DA-ST-87-01748. Subject Operation/Series: GALLANT EAGLE 86 State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Veluwe © Cavdkm-Ruud Mol Future Marines who have longed for a week during the Final Exercise (Finex), the last mile of the 26-week elementary vocational training.

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (March 5, 2013) A landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) approaches the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay is part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group and, with embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (15th MEU), is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

Swedish Marines drive U.S. Marines in a Swedish combat boat 90 while participating in a tactical exercise during Archipelago Endeavor 22 (AE22) in Berga, Sweden, Sept. 20, 2022. AE22 is an integrated field training exercise that increases operational capability and enhances strategic cooperation between the U.S. Marines and Swedish forces.

U.S. Navy Sailors with the amphibious dock landing ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) pilot a landing craft air cushion during a light armored vehicle reinforcement exercise, off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 14, 2024. The LAV reinforcement exercise tested Battalion Landing Team 1/1s ship-to-shore capabilities to provide additional firepower and security while also offloading from the USS Green Bay. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit 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. Marine Corps

U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Michael Needham, a simulated downed air crewmember, prepares to shoot a flare during a search and rescue training exercise on Oct. 27, 2015 in the Northern Arabian Gulf. The training was conducted with personnel from the 185th TAB and the 97th Transportation Detachment with the intent to evaluate responses to a downed aircrew during an overwater mission in the North Arabian Gulf.

SAN DIEGO (July 20, 2022) German and U.S. Navy divers participate in a mine exploitation exercise for Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, July 20. 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 worlds 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 worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

060718-N-6214F-002. Country: Red Sea

Members of a U.S. Navy Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) team climb aboard a Seafox special warfare patrol craft during a public demonstration. Base: Coronado State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12, partner up to properly remove mission oriented protective posture gear during annual chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) training after the gas chamber at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Sep. 8, 2022. Realistic CBRN training teaches Marines about proper protective measures, which increase their chances of survival during a CBRN attack, provides information about various contamination threats, and instills confidence in their equipment.

111017-N-ER662-465 EAST CHINA SEA (Oct. 17, 2011) Sailors practice firing M-4 automatic rifles on the flight deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9). Denver is part of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is conducting operations in the western Pacific region.

030816-A-5493S-029. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Tigris River, Baghdad Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, paddle out 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.

060823-N-5148B-010. Base: Nab Coronado State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Marine Raiders with Special Operations Task Force 511.2 provide nonstandard maritime Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems support to Philippine National Police in Palawan, Philippines, June 9, 2022. This training gave Marine Raiders with SOTF 511.2 the opportunity to rehearse SUAS launch and recovery from a nonstandard maritime vessel for use in future U.S.-Philippine operations.

Soldiers on an inflatable boat, Taken During the military exercise wettiner sword with german and czech Soldiers Near Tangermuende, 26 03 2024 Wettiner sword is part of the quadriga Exercise of Nato Tangermuendende germany copyright

110817-N-LO372-467STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Miss. (Aug. 17, 2011) Sailors assigned to Special Boat Team 22 work alongside service members from Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Panama and Peru during a hot extraction training exercise as part of PANAMAX 2011. PANAMAX focuses on the defense of the Panama Canal, with participants from 17 countries, and involving more than 4,500 personnel throughout the U.S. Southern Command.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (March 13, 2013) - Marines in an amphibious assault vehicle approach the well deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50). Carter Hall is deployed as part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group with embarked Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU) supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility.

051021-A-8255A-123. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Baghdad Country: Iraq (IRQ)

The Coast Guards Maritime Security Response Team (MSRT) from Virginia participates in a training exercise to maintain skills. The highly trained and specialized team practice tactical boardings-at-sea, active shooter scenarios, and detection of radiological material. MSRT is also a counter-terrorism unit, deployable at home and abroad. US Coast Guard Art Program 2022 Collection, Ob ID# 202211, "Maritime security team in training," Don Hatcher, acrylic, 16 x 20

030205-M-7031A-006. Base: Marine Corps Base, Ternate State: Cavite Province Country: Philippines (PHL) Scene Major Command Shown: 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Cooper Chavis, a company executive officer with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observes boat formations 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.

Members from the Belize coast guard conduct at-sea boarding exercises during Tradewinds 2022 in Belize City, Belize, on May 18, 2022. Tradewinds 2022 focuses on foreign military interaction, maritime interdiction, ground security, and field training exercises supporting U.S. SOUTHCOM's Campaign Plan.

U.S. Army Soldiers with the 511th Engineer Dive Detachment jump out of a raft in the Arabian Gulf during a helocast training on Muhammed Al-Ahmed Naval Base, Kuwait, Jan. 21, 2023. Helocasting is an insertion technique developed by Airborne troops whereby Soldiers step off the aircraft's ramp at a low altitude and speed directly into the water below.

Marine beachmasters use a TEREX 72-31MP2U/R forklift to load equipment aboard a utility landing craft during a multinational peacekeeping operation. Base: Beirut Country: Lebanon (LBN)

170923-A-PF443-0057ST THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands (Sept. 23,2 017) A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) directs a U.S. Army light medium tactical vehicle off a landing craft, utility in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Service members returned to the U.S. Virgin Islands to assist with disaster relief operations in response to hurricanes Irma and Maria. The Department of Defense conducts Defense Support of Civil Authorities operations to assist civilian responders in saving lives, relieving human suffering and mitigating property damage in response to a catastrophic disaster.

DA-SC-86-08896. Base: Hwachon Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

U.S. Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion maneuver combat rubber raiding craft on Recon Beach, Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, December 7, 2022. Marines with 3rd Transportation Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, and Marines with 3rd Recon fostered skills maneuvering rubber raiding craft with added weight to prepare for future operations and exercises.

Two jeeps and an M-60 main battle tank are ferried across the Cowhouse River on a floating bridge during the joint services Operation Gallant Crew '77. Subject Operation/Series: GALLANT CREW '77 Base: Fort Hood State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

AQABA, Jordan - A simulated enemy boat is destroyed during phase two of the Eager Lion 22 final exercise at the Royal Jordanian Naval Base, Jordan, September 11, 2022. Eager Lion 22 is a multilateral exercise hosted by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, designed to exchange military expertise, and improve interoperability among partner nations, and considered the capstone of a broader U.S. military relationship with the Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF). Jordan is one of U.S. Central Commands (USCENTCOM) strongest and most reliable partners in the Levant sub-region.

Marine in contemporary battlesue with beret.

Smoke closes in on members of a U.S. Navy Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) team as they capture a prisoner during a public demonstration. Base: Coronado State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

980628-M-9816M-004. Complete Scene Caption: Amphibious Assault Vehicles (AAV7A1) from Mobility-Counter Mobility Platoon, 3d Amphibious Assault Battalion, 1ST Marine Division, assault Red Beach under the cover of close air support provided by Cobra helicopters from 3d Marine Air Wing. The Landing Craft, Air Cushioned (LCAC), from Assault Craft Unit 5, returns to the USS Anchorage during Exercise KERNEL BLITZ'97. 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: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command S

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