The first focus of the train was to maximise coaching alternatives in mine warfare and explosive ordinance disposal coaching. This was performed by way of an integration of naval property from the Royal Navy and U.S. Navy, and extra coaching alternatives to incorporate: mine sweeping components, anti-terrorism operations, small boat operations, an underway replenishment-at-sea and injury management drill.
Taking part within the train was Royal Fleet Auxiliary Bay-class touchdown ship RFA Cardigan Bay, Avenger-class mine countermeasures USS Gladiator (MCM 11) and Avenger-class mine countermeasures USS Sentry (MCM 3), in addition to explosive ordinance disposal groups from Process Pressure 56.
“Our collaboration with the Royal Navy, the RFA Cardigan Bay, USS Sentry and U.S. expeditionary mine countermeasures pressure throughout this train has enabled us to boost our core mine warfare capabilities and foster a stronger alliance and more practical response to rising threats,” stated Lt. Cmdr. Joseph Minnich, USS Gladiator government officer.
In the course of the train, the 2 navies performed a broad vary of simulations and coaching evolutions making certain interoperability and full integration of the forces. Two mine sweeping evolutions had been performed demonstrating the flexibility to deploy mine sweeping gear to fight moored mines within the Arabian Sea and the encircling space of operations.
“By way of our partnership, we have refined ways, methods and procedures making us higher outfitted to advertise a collective dedication to maritime safety and stability within the area,” stated Minnich.
In July, 2023, the U.S. and UK naval forces accomplished an analogous weeklong coaching train within the Arabian Gulf referred to as Neptune’s Kilt. The train included greater than 500 Sailors and Airmen from 4 floor ships, two MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters, and 4 A-10 Thunderbolt II plane.
The U.S. fifth Fleet space of operations encompasses practically 2.5 million sq. miles of water space and consists of the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Crimson Sea, elements of the Indian Ocean and three crucial choke factors on the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Bab al-Mandeb.