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U.S. Marines assigned to Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa and Seneglaese Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos execute a “line of stern” patrolling formation during small-boat operations training in St. Louis, Senegal, July 3, 2015. Approximately 20 Marines, sailors and coast guardsmen with the unit spent the week teaching more than 30 members of the Fusilier Marins small-boat operations and maintenance skills. - U.S. Marines assigned to Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa and Seneglaese Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos execute a “line of stern” patrolling formation during small-boat operations training in St. Louis, Senegal, July 3, 2015. Approximately 20 Marines, sailors and coast guardsmen with the unit spent the week teaching more than 30 members of the Fusilier Marins small-boat operations and maintenance skills.

They are forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific with 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Nevaeh Segura) - From left, U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Stephen Estrada, Lance Cpl. Samuel Calhoun, U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Jett Garcia, and Cpl. Austin Potter responded and rendered first aid to a Japanese resident following a car crash on the Okinawa Expressway, Okinawa, Japan on Oct. 6, 2024.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with III Marine Expeditionary Force are part of a group of U.S. Marines and Sailors that provided emergency medical aid to locals involved in a traffic accident Oct. 7, 2022 in Luzon, Philippines. These service members are deployed in support of KAMANDAG, 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. Marines and Sailors with III Marine Expeditionary Force are part of a group of U.S. Marines and Sailors that provided emergency medical aid to locals involved in a traffic accident Oct. 7, 2022 in Luzon, Philippines. These service members are deployed in support of KAMANDAG, 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.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division use a compass to determine their left and right lateral limits on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division use a compass to determine their left and right lateral limits on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand.

Lt. J.G. Eric Lopez, a physician assistant with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, checks the heart rate of a notional Norwegian soldier casualty during combat casualty care training in Rena, Norway, Feb. 17, 2016. More than ten Marines and sailors with the unit conducted simulated medical treatment onto their Norwegian counterparts in order to enhance and compare their field medical care capabilities. The two countries are coming together for Exercise Cold Response 16 in March, which combines the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. - Lt. J.G. Eric Lopez, a physician assistant with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, checks the heart rate of a notional Norwegian soldier casualty during combat casualty care training in Rena, Norway, Feb. 17, 2016. More than ten Marines and sailors with the unit conducted simulated medical treatment onto their Norwegian counterparts in order to enhance and compare their field medical care capabilities. The two countries are coming together for Exercise Cold Response 16 in March, which combines the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments.

Mongolian Armed Forces Lt. Col. B. Baasaadorj practices the steps of launching an unmanned aerial vehicle during the UAV training portion of Khaan Quest 2016 at Five Hills Training Area near Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, May 27. The training equipped MAF members with a deeper understanding of the purpose and operations of UAVs and how they can be used during peacekeeping missions. Khaan Quest 2016 is an annual, multinational peacekeeping operations exercise hosted by the Mongolian Armed Forces, co-sponsored by U.S. Pacific Command, and supported by U.S. Army Pacific and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. Khaan Quest, in its 14th iteration, is the capstone exercise for this year’s Global Peace Operations Initiative program. The exercise focuses on training activities to enhance international interoperability, develop peacekeeping capabilities, build to mil-to-mil relationships, and enhance military readiness. - Mongolian Armed Forces Lt. Col. B. Baasaadorj practices the steps of launching an unmanned aerial vehicle during the UAV training portion of Khaan Quest 2016 at Five Hills Training Area near Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, May 27. The training equipped MAF members with a deeper understanding of the purpose and operations of UAVs and how they can be used during peacekeeping missions. Khaan Quest 2016 is an annual, multinational peacekeeping operations exercise hosted by the Mongolian Armed Forces, co-sponsored by U.S. Pacific Command, and supported by U.S. Army Pacific and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. Khaan Quest, in its 14th iteration, is the capstone exercise for this year’s Global Peace Operations Initiative program. The exercise focuses on training activities to enhance international interoperability, develop peacekeeping capabilities, build to mil-to-mil relationships, and enhance military readiness.

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Gen. Stephen Whiting, commander, U.S. Space Command and Chief Master Sgt. Jacob Simmons, chief senior enlisted leader for U.S. Space Command, pose with the 2025 Apollo Award recipients during USSPACECOM’s Galactic Gala at the Hub in Colorado Springs, Colorado, February 19, 2026. The theme of the gala was “250 Years of Trailblazing” and featured the 2025 USSPACECOM Apollo Awards. USSPACECOM, working with Allies and Partners, plans, executes, and integrates military spacepower into multi-domain global operations in order to deter aggression, defend national interests, and when necessary, defeat threats. (USSPACECOM photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Shannon Burns) - Gen. Stephen Whiting, commander, U.S. Space Command and Chief Master Sgt. Jacob Simmons, chief senior enlisted leader for U.S. Space Command, pose with the 2025 Apollo Award recipients during USSPACECOM’s Galactic Gala at the Hub in Colorado Springs, Colorado, February 19, 2026. The theme of the gala was “250 Years of Trailblazing” and featured the 2025 USSPACECOM Apollo Awards. USSPACECOM, working with Allies and Partners, plans, executes, and integrates military spacepower into multi-domain global operations in order to deter aggression, defend national interests, and when necessary, defeat threats. (USSPACECOM photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Shannon Burns)

Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course. - Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Jonathan Berklich, a ground intelligence officer with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 25.3, conducts planning with members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force during Exercise Southern Jackaroo at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia, June 1, 2025. - U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Jonathan Berklich, a ground intelligence officer with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 25.3, conducts planning with members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force during Exercise Southern Jackaroo at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia, June 1, 2025. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Angelina Sara)

Brigadier Damian Cantwell, the Exercise Kowari commander, gives a patch to all the participants of Exercise Kowari at Larrakeyah Barracks, Northern Territory, Australia, August 26, 2016. The purpose of Exercise Kowari is to enhance the United States, Australia, and China’s friendship and trust, through trilateral cooperation in the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean Rim regions. - Brigadier Damian Cantwell, the Exercise Kowari commander, gives a patch to all the participants of Exercise Kowari at Larrakeyah Barracks, Northern Territory, Australia, August 26, 2016. The purpose of Exercise Kowari is to enhance the United States, Australia, and China’s friendship and trust, through trilateral cooperation in the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean Rim regions.

U.S. Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 26, walk to the opening ceremony of Exercise Southern Jackaroo in Townsville Field Training Area, Australia, May 29, 2026. Exercise Southern Jackaroo is a trilateral training event between the armed forces of Australia, Japan, and the United States that builds combined combat readiness and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific through joint operations and live-fire training. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kyle Chan) - U.S. Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 26, walk to the opening ceremony of Exercise Southern Jackaroo in Townsville Field Training Area, Australia, May 29, 2026. Exercise Southern Jackaroo is a trilateral training event between the armed forces of Australia, Japan, and the United States that builds combined combat readiness and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific through joint operations and live-fire training. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kyle Chan)

Service members from the United States, Australia, the Republic of the Philippines, and the United Kingdom, pose for a photo after the opening ceremony of Exercise Predator’s Run 24 at Robertson Barracks, NT, Australia, July 15, 2024. - Service members from the United States, Australia, the Republic of the Philippines, and the United Kingdom, pose for a photo after the opening ceremony of Exercise Predator’s Run 24 at Robertson Barracks, NT, Australia, July 15, 2024. Exercise Predator’s Run 24 is a littoral-focused, multilateral training exercise led by the Australian Army’s 1st Brigade, involving the Australian Defence Force, British Armed Forces, and the U.S. Marine Corps. Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 24.3’s participation in Exercise Predator’s Run 24 increases interoperability with Allies and partners, highlighting the effectiveness of combined operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Cristian Bestul)

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Micheal Mendoza, a joint terminal attack controller with Command Element, Marine Rotational Force - Darwin, left, and Australian Defence Force Sgt. Aaron Costas, with 102nd Coral Battery, communicate to a B-1B Lancer pilot at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 14, 2020. The combined training allowed both Marines and Australian Defence Force members to learn how to communicate effectively to be ready to work together to to contribute to regional security. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Sarah Marshall) - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Micheal Mendoza, a joint terminal attack controller with Command Element, Marine Rotational Force - Darwin, left, and Australian Defence Force Sgt. Aaron Costas, with 102nd Coral Battery, communicate to a B-1B Lancer pilot at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 14, 2020. The combined training allowed both Marines and Australian Defence Force members to learn how to communicate effectively to be ready to work together to to contribute to regional security. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Sarah Marshall)

An Australian Army soldier sights in on a target with a Blaser Tactical 2 Sniper Rifle during Exercise Southern Jackaroo at Mount Bundey Training Area, June 18, 2021. U.S. Marines, U.S. Navy sailors, Australian Army soldiers and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force soldiers conducted a live fire range exercising their combined long-range precision marksmanship capabilities on multiple weapons systems. Defense ties between the United States, allies and partner nations are critical to regional security, cooperation and integration of our combined capabilities. - An Australian Army soldier sights in on a target with a Blaser Tactical 2 Sniper Rifle during Exercise Southern Jackaroo at Mount Bundey Training Area, June 18, 2021. U.S. Marines, U.S. Navy sailors, Australian Army soldiers and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force soldiers conducted a live fire range exercising their combined long-range precision marksmanship capabilities on multiple weapons systems. Defense ties between the United States, allies and partner nations are critical to regional security, cooperation and integration of our combined capabilities.

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U.S. and Benin officials take time to pose for a photos, Aug. 31, 2015, after the opening ceremony that officially started training between U.S. Marines and sailors and Benin's National Surveillance Police at Benin's National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin. Today’s ceremony marks a new milestone of the partnership between Benin and the U.S. This training is the first time in the Nation Surveillance Police’s 10-year history a foreign military has come to train and mentor the specialized unit. - U.S. and Benin officials take time to pose for a photos, Aug. 31, 2015, after the opening ceremony that officially started training between U.S. Marines and sailors and Benin's National Surveillance Police at Benin's National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin. Today’s ceremony marks a new milestone of the partnership between Benin and the U.S. This training is the first time in the Nation Surveillance Police’s 10-year history a foreign military has come to train and mentor the specialized unit.

Benin National Surveillance Police students capture their intended target during an early morning raid exercise, Sept. 25, 2015, at Benin's Military Officer Academy in Toffo, Benin. More than 150 National Surveillance Police students graduated from a monthlong U.S. Marine Corps training evolution that included weapons handling, combat marksmanship, patrolling, close-quarters combat, tactical site exploitation, tactical questioning and the operations order process. - Benin National Surveillance Police students capture their intended target during an early morning raid exercise, Sept. 25, 2015, at Benin's Military Officer Academy in Toffo, Benin. More than 150 National Surveillance Police students graduated from a monthlong U.S. Marine Corps training evolution that included weapons handling, combat marksmanship, patrolling, close-quarters combat, tactical site exploitation, tactical questioning and the operations order process.

After locating and destroying the enemy's primary defense location, U.S. and Bulgarian forces depart from the battle zone during Exercise Strike Back, Oct. 15 at the Koren Field Training Ground, Bulgaria. Strike Back is a multilateral combat exercise designed to prepare Bulgarian forces to control, command and operate with joint-nation forces. The training consisted of defensive tactics and offensive objectives and maneuvers. - After locating and destroying the enemy's primary defense location, U.S. and Bulgarian forces depart from the battle zone during Exercise Strike Back, Oct. 15 at the Koren Field Training Ground, Bulgaria. Strike Back is a multilateral combat exercise designed to prepare Bulgarian forces to control, command and operate with joint-nation forces. The training consisted of defensive tactics and offensive objectives and maneuvers.

U.S. Marines and sailors are working with Cameroon’s Fusiliers Marins and Compagnie des Palmeurs de Combat to increase their capabilities to combat illicit activity and increase security in the waterways and borders of Cameroon. At the request of the Cameroonian government and through coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde, Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, are teaching their military counterparts in infantry tactics to help build their maritime security force capabilities. - U.S. Marines and sailors are working with Cameroon’s Fusiliers Marins and Compagnie des Palmeurs de Combat to increase their capabilities to combat illicit activity and increase security in the waterways and borders of Cameroon. At the request of the Cameroonian government and through coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde, Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, are teaching their military counterparts in infantry tactics to help build their maritime security force capabilities.

Two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Landing Craft Air Cushion vessels maneuver past Japanese ship Hyuga during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 3, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside coalition forces. - Two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Landing Craft Air Cushion vessels maneuver past Japanese ship Hyuga during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 3, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside coalition forces.

A French landing craft unit transports U.S. Marine Corps medium tactical vehicle replacement trucks during an amphibious offload with French forces aboard French amphibious assault ship LHD Tonnerre (L9014). Tonnerre, with embarked Marines and Sailors from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51, 5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, is conducting maritime security operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to ensure regional stability, freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce. - A French landing craft unit transports U.S. Marine Corps medium tactical vehicle replacement trucks during an amphibious offload with French forces aboard French amphibious assault ship LHD Tonnerre (L9014). Tonnerre, with embarked Marines and Sailors from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51, 5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, is conducting maritime security operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to ensure regional stability, freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce.

U.S. Marines stand guard during a simulated civilian evacuation at the National Gendarmerie Tactical Training Center in Saint-Astier, France, Oct. 9. The exercise marks the third rotation of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa Marines training alongside the Gendarmerie. - U.S. Marines stand guard during a simulated civilian evacuation at the National Gendarmerie Tactical Training Center in Saint-Astier, France, Oct. 9. The exercise marks the third rotation of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa Marines training alongside the Gendarmerie.

French forces secure the area in preparation to depart the simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel mission during Alligator Dagger. Alligator Dagger, led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Expedition Brigade, is a dedicated, bilateral combat rehearsal that combines U.S. and French forces to practice, rehearse and exercise integrated capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore. - French forces secure the area in preparation to depart the simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel mission during Alligator Dagger. Alligator Dagger, led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Expedition Brigade, is a dedicated, bilateral combat rehearsal that combines U.S. and French forces to practice, rehearse and exercise integrated capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore.

U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region.

Marines with 4th Assault Amphibian battalion drive an amphibious assault vehicle during a simulated amphibious assault at Peninsula Express 15-8 on Dogu Beach, July 3, 2015. Peninsula Express is the eighth iteration this year of the Korean-Marine Exchange Program, and the first time Marine Forces Reserve has participated in the series of exercises between the U.S. and Republic of Korea Marine Corps designed to build interoperability and tactical familiarity between partner nations. - Marines with 4th Assault Amphibian battalion drive an amphibious assault vehicle during a simulated amphibious assault at Peninsula Express 15-8 on Dogu Beach, July 3, 2015. Peninsula Express is the eighth iteration this year of the Korean-Marine Exchange Program, and the first time Marine Forces Reserve has participated in the series of exercises between the U.S. and Republic of Korea Marine Corps designed to build interoperability and tactical familiarity between partner nations.

Lithuanian forces are teamed with U.S. Marines from the Black Sea Rotational Force during Exercise Saber Strike at the Pabrade Training Area, Lithuania, June 9, 2015. The exercise brings NATO allies and other partner nations together in eastern Europe for a multilateral training event designed to promote regional stability and security, strengthen partnerships, and foster trust. - Lithuanian forces are teamed with U.S. Marines from the Black Sea Rotational Force during Exercise Saber Strike at the Pabrade Training Area, Lithuania, June 9, 2015. The exercise brings NATO allies and other partner nations together in eastern Europe for a multilateral training event designed to promote regional stability and security, strengthen partnerships, and foster trust.

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988. - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988.

Multinational force standards allow NATO troops to apply firepower at the precise moment needed at Adazi Military Base, Latvia, June 18, 2016. Exercise Saber Strike 16 was an exercise with more than 10,000 service members from the U.S. and 12 NATO partner nations. - Multinational force standards allow NATO troops to apply firepower at the precise moment needed at Adazi Military Base, Latvia, June 18, 2016. Exercise Saber Strike 16 was an exercise with more than 10,000 service members from the U.S. and 12 NATO partner nations.

An international Corps of Marines from Sweden, Finland, and the U.K. conduct amphibious assaults on a beachhead in Ravlunda, Sweden, for local media outlets during BALTOPS 2015, June 13. The amphibious forces are part of 17 NATO Allies and partner nations that are integrated in air, land, and sea operations to improve their combined-force capability to work together and to respond to threats in the Baltic region. - An international Corps of Marines from Sweden, Finland, and the U.K. conduct amphibious assaults on a beachhead in Ravlunda, Sweden, for local media outlets during BALTOPS 2015, June 13. The amphibious forces are part of 17 NATO Allies and partner nations that are integrated in air, land, and sea operations to improve their combined-force capability to work together and to respond to threats in the Baltic region.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 25.3, I Marine Expeditionary Force Forward, and Philippine Marines with 3rd Brigade set security during KAMANDAG 9 at Oyster Bay, Palawan, Philippines, June 11, 2025. KAMANDAG is an annual Philippine Marine Corps and U.S. Marine Corps-led exercise aimed at enhancing the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ defense and humanitarian capabilities by providing valuable training in combined operations with foreign militaries in the advancement of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. MRF-D is an annual six-month rotational deployment to enhance interoperability with the Australian Defence Force and allies and partners and provide a forward postured crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anita Ramos) - U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 25.3, I Marine Expeditionary Force Forward, and Philippine Marines with 3rd Brigade set security during KAMANDAG 9 at Oyster Bay, Palawan, Philippines, June 11, 2025. KAMANDAG is an annual Philippine Marine Corps and U.S. Marine Corps-led exercise aimed at enhancing the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ defense and humanitarian capabilities by providing valuable training in combined operations with foreign militaries in the advancement of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. MRF-D is an annual six-month rotational deployment to enhance interoperability with the Australian Defence Force and allies and partners and provide a forward postured crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anita Ramos)

Senior leaders from across the Indo-Pacific pose for a group photo following the opening ceremony of the 11th iteration of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium, Manila, Philippines, July 8, 2025. Bringing together experts and leaders from across the Indo-Pacific, PALS fosters collaboration among Allied and partner amphibious and maritime forces to share knowledge and recent operational insights. This year’s symposium hosted senior leaders from 22 participating nations who are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the objective of strengthening and developing regional relationships. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roger-Junior Annoh) - Senior leaders from across the Indo-Pacific pose for a group photo following the opening ceremony of the 11th iteration of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium, Manila, Philippines, July 8, 2025. Bringing together experts and leaders from across the Indo-Pacific, PALS fosters collaboration among Allied and partner amphibious and maritime forces to share knowledge and recent operational insights. This year’s symposium hosted senior leaders from 22 participating nations who are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the objective of strengthening and developing regional relationships. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roger-Junior Annoh)

U.S. Marines and Philippine Marines conduct an amphibious landing during KAMANDAG 2 in Naval Education Training Command, Philippines, Oct. 6, 2018. KAMANDAG helps maintain a high level of readiness and enhances bilateral military-to-military relations and capabilities. - U.S. Marines and Philippine Marines conduct an amphibious landing during KAMANDAG 2 in Naval Education Training Command, Philippines, Oct. 6, 2018. KAMANDAG helps maintain a high level of readiness and enhances bilateral military-to-military relations and capabilities.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Colby Goranson, a radio operator with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa, works with Portuguese soldiers to set up communications equipment during Exercise Orion 16 at military training area Tancos, Portugal, June 22, 2016. Exercise Orion is an annual crisis response operation hosted by the Portuguese military, bringing together forces from Portugal, Spain and the U.S. to enhance interoperability among NATO forces. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Colby Goranson, a radio operator with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa, works with Portuguese soldiers to set up communications equipment during Exercise Orion 16 at military training area Tancos, Portugal, June 22, 2016. Exercise Orion is an annual crisis response operation hosted by the Portuguese military, bringing together forces from Portugal, Spain and the U.S. to enhance interoperability among NATO forces.

A Portuguese Marine holds security at Pinheiro Da Cruz, Praia Da Raposa beach, Portugal, while participating in a combined amphibious assault exercise, Oct. 20, 2015, during Trident Juncture 15. Trident Juncture is a NATO-led exercise designed to certify NATO response forces and develop interoperability among participating NATO and partner nations. - A Portuguese Marine holds security at Pinheiro Da Cruz, Praia Da Raposa beach, Portugal, while participating in a combined amphibious assault exercise, Oct. 20, 2015, during Trident Juncture 15. Trident Juncture is a NATO-led exercise designed to certify NATO response forces and develop interoperability among participating NATO and partner nations.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Carlson, right, dismounts the rappel rope during a company competition for Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Yooghuk Dae, Munseu San Mountain, Republic of Korea, Sept. 11, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines participated in a race of the fastest company to complete rappelling, rock climbing and rope climbing before a sprint to the finish line. KMEP 15-12 is a bilateral training exercise that enhances the ROK and U.S. alliance, promotes stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthens ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Carlson, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a rifleman with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Division and attached through the Unit Deployment Program to III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are with 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Carlson, right, dismounts the rappel rope during a company competition for Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Yooghuk Dae, Munseu San Mountain, Republic of Korea, Sept. 11, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines participated in a race of the fastest company to complete rappelling, rock climbing and rope climbing before a sprint to the finish line. KMEP 15-12 is a bilateral training exercise that enhances the ROK and U.S. alliance, promotes stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthens ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Carlson, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a rifleman with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Division and attached through the Unit Deployment Program to III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are with 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps.

The 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric M. Smith, and the Commandant of the Republic of Korea Marine Corps, Lt. Gen Ju II-Seok, stand for colors during an honors cordon at Arlington, Virginia, June 2, 2026. - The 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric M. Smith, and the Commandant of the Republic of Korea Marine Corps, Lt. Gen Ju II-Seok, stand for colors during an honors cordon at Arlington, Virginia, June 2, 2026.

Republic of Korea Marines hike a 35- km path up a mountain Jan. 15 during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-3 in Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK Marines were training for mountain warfare and snow mobility warfare alongside their U.S. counterparts from Alpha Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are force reconnaissance men with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Division. - Republic of Korea Marines hike a 35- km path up a mountain Jan. 15 during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-3 in Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK Marines were training for mountain warfare and snow mobility warfare alongside their U.S. counterparts from Alpha Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are force reconnaissance men with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Division.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Thomas Harding shows a Republic of Korea Marine his M27 infantry automatic rifle during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15 in the vicinity of Pohang, South Korea, March 29, 2015. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in KMEP 15. The overall objective of KMEPs are to enhance amphibious operations between ROK and U.S. forces that contributes to security and stability on the Korean Peninsula as well as the entire Asia-Pacific region. The ROK Marines are with 33rd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division, and the U.S. Marines are with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 31st MEU. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Thomas Harding shows a Republic of Korea Marine his M27 infantry automatic rifle during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15 in the vicinity of Pohang, South Korea, March 29, 2015. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in KMEP 15. The overall objective of KMEPs are to enhance amphibious operations between ROK and U.S. forces that contributes to security and stability on the Korean Peninsula as well as the entire Asia-Pacific region. The ROK Marines are with 33rd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division, and the U.S. Marines are with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 31st MEU.

Republic of Korea Marine Lance Cpl. Jun Shin puts on his gas mask during a gas attack scenario as part of Korea Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Gunha-Rhi, Republic of Korea, Sept. 17, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines practiced quickly putting on their gas mask and carrying the wounded to safety. KMEP 15-12 is an exercise in a series of continuous bilateral training exercises that enhance the ROK and U.S. alliance, promote stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthen ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Shin, from Ulsan, ROK, is with 2nd Company, 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps. - Republic of Korea Marine Lance Cpl. Jun Shin puts on his gas mask during a gas attack scenario as part of Korea Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Gunha-Rhi, Republic of Korea, Sept. 17, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines practiced quickly putting on their gas mask and carrying the wounded to safety. KMEP 15-12 is an exercise in a series of continuous bilateral training exercises that enhance the ROK and U.S. alliance, promote stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthen ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Shin, from Ulsan, ROK, is with 2nd Company, 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps.

Second Lt. Aaron Burtner, security cooperation team leader, poses for a photo with Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos after completing their final exercise with U.S. service members in Dakar, Senegal, September 17, 2015. The Marines and Coast Guardsmen with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa spent four weeks training the COFUMACO on basic infantry tactics and small-boat operations as a part of a Maritime Security Force Assistance mission to increase interoperability with Senegal’s and strengthen the bond between the partner nations. - Second Lt. Aaron Burtner, security cooperation team leader, poses for a photo with Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos after completing their final exercise with U.S. service members in Dakar, Senegal, September 17, 2015. The Marines and Coast Guardsmen with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa spent four weeks training the COFUMACO on basic infantry tactics and small-boat operations as a part of a Maritime Security Force Assistance mission to increase interoperability with Senegal’s and strengthen the bond between the partner nations.

Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies. - Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies.

Maj. Gen. Stephen M. Neary, commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa, poses for a photo with U.S. Ambassador to Senegal Tulinabo S. Mushingi, after a meeting at the Cooperative Security Location in Dakar, Senegal, Oct. 6. - Maj. Gen. Stephen M. Neary, commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa, poses for a photo with U.S. Ambassador to Senegal Tulinabo S. Mushingi, after a meeting at the Cooperative Security Location in Dakar, Senegal, Oct. 6.

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Royal Thai Armed Forces SM1 Uthon Namsuwan, a Thailand Mine Action Center Explosive Ordnance Disposal student with Humanitarian Mine Action Unit 3, performs a render safe technique on an 81mm high explosive mortar during an HMA EOD Level 3 course at Ta Mor Roi Training area in Surin Province, Thailand, Jul. 29, 2022. Royal Thai and American Armed Forces work together to train TMAC students in EOD level 3 in order to develop an EOD capacity to assist TMAC’s mission of becoming landmine free. This partnership is aligned with the U.S. Department of Defense’s Humanitarian Mine Action Program, which assists partnered nations affected by landmines, explosive remnants of war, and the hazardous effects of unexploded ordnance. - Royal Thai Armed Forces SM1 Uthon Namsuwan, a Thailand Mine Action Center Explosive Ordnance Disposal student with Humanitarian Mine Action Unit 3, performs a render safe technique on an 81mm high explosive mortar during an HMA EOD Level 3 course at Ta Mor Roi Training area in Surin Province, Thailand, Jul. 29, 2022. Royal Thai and American Armed Forces work together to train TMAC students in EOD level 3 in order to develop an EOD capacity to assist TMAC’s mission of becoming landmine free. This partnership is aligned with the U.S. Department of Defense’s Humanitarian Mine Action Program, which assists partnered nations affected by landmines, explosive remnants of war, and the hazardous effects of unexploded ordnance.

Cpl. Justin Groom, an aircraft rescue firefighter with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, stokes the fire inside of a scrap airplane during a fire response scenario Feb 18, at Utapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield, Kingdom of Thailand. The scenario is part of exercise Cobra Gold 2015, which is designed to improve international partnerships and security within the region. - Cpl. Justin Groom, an aircraft rescue firefighter with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, stokes the fire inside of a scrap airplane during a fire response scenario Feb 18, at Utapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield, Kingdom of Thailand. The scenario is part of exercise Cobra Gold 2015, which is designed to improve international partnerships and security within the region.

U.S. Marines and Tunisian Groupement des Forces Speciales conduct convoy night operation training during an exercise in Bizerte, Tunisia, Mar. 21- Apr. 8, 2016. The Marine vehicle maintenance and assistance team trained with their Tunisian counterparts to increase the counter terrorism capabilities of the GFS. - U.S. Marines and Tunisian Groupement des Forces Speciales conduct convoy night operation training during an exercise in Bizerte, Tunisia, Mar. 21- Apr. 8, 2016. The Marine vehicle maintenance and assistance team trained with their Tunisian counterparts to increase the counter terrorism capabilities of the GFS.

Air Vice-Marshal Bhanupong Seyayongka, third from the right, stands with Royal Thai Air Force personnel and U.S. Marines from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, I Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force for a picture in front of a U.S. Marine MV-22 Osprey and a RTAF F-16 Air Defense Fighter at an open house held by Royal Thai Air Force Wing 1 and U.S. Marines at Royal Thai Air Force Base Korat during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015, Feb. 13. Cobra Gold is a Thailand /United States co-sponsored, multinational and joint theater security cooperation exercise, conducted annually in the Kingdom of Thailand, with 25 nations participating. This year there is an increased focus on Humanitarian Civic Action, community engagement, and medical activities to support the needs and humanitarian interests of civilian populations around the region. - Air Vice-Marshal Bhanupong Seyayongka, third from the right, stands with Royal Thai Air Force personnel and U.S. Marines from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, I Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force for a picture in front of a U.S. Marine MV-22 Osprey and a RTAF F-16 Air Defense Fighter at an open house held by Royal Thai Air Force Wing 1 and U.S. Marines at Royal Thai Air Force Base Korat during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015, Feb. 13. Cobra Gold is a Thailand /United States co-sponsored, multinational and joint theater security cooperation exercise, conducted annually in the Kingdom of Thailand, with 25 nations participating. This year there is an increased focus on Humanitarian Civic Action, community engagement, and medical activities to support the needs and humanitarian interests of civilian populations around the region.

Marines and sailors with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Eastern Army practice casualty evacuation drills during Forest Light 17-1 at Camp Soumagahara, Mar. 9, 2017. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise conducted by U.S. and JGSDF in order to strengthen interoperability and combined capabilities in defense of the U.S.-Japan alliance. - Marines and sailors with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Eastern Army practice casualty evacuation drills during Forest Light 17-1 at Camp Soumagahara, Mar. 9, 2017. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise conducted by U.S. and JGSDF in order to strengthen interoperability and combined capabilities in defense of the U.S.-Japan alliance.

A U.S. Army High Mobility Artillery Rocket System fires during a littoral live fire event during Balikatan 23 at the Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command, Philippines, April 26, 2023. Balikatan 2023 is the 38th iteration of the annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military. The exercise includes three weeks of training focused on amphibious operations, command and control, humanitarian assistance, urban operations and counterterrorism skills throughout northern and western Luzon. Coastal defense training figures prominently in the Balikatan 23 training schedule. - A U.S. Army High Mobility Artillery Rocket System fires during a littoral live fire event during Balikatan 23 at the Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command, Philippines, April 26, 2023. Balikatan 2023 is the 38th iteration of the annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military. The exercise includes three weeks of training focused on amphibious operations, command and control, humanitarian assistance, urban operations and counterterrorism skills throughout northern and western Luzon. Coastal defense training figures prominently in the Balikatan 23 training schedule.