Category: Security

Posted on

Defense News in Brief: REFORPAC 2025: US Air Force executes unprecedented surge into Pacific theater

Source: United States Airforce

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AFNS) —  Over the last week, U.S. Pacific Air Forces accomplished a rapid, mass deployment and reception of personnel, equipment and aircraft to multiple locations in the Indo-Pacific theater of operations for Exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025.

“We’ve seen amazing global teamwork completing an incredible lift to kick off REFORPAC,” said Gen. Kevin Schneider, PACAF commander. “Airmen have innovated and overcome tough obstacles to get critical pieces in place, demonstrating our collective capability to project decisive air power into and throughout the Indo-Pacific with dramatic speed and scale.”

The U.S. Air Force, alongside its joint allies and partners, will continue to train and integrate over the next several weeks, enhancing interoperability and readiness across the Pacific theater. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, a new way the Air Force is exercising to conduct large operations in contested, dynamic environments. The aim is to improve interoperability and multilateral cooperation, leading to a stronger, more capable, deterrent force.

The DLE series encompasses all branches of the Department of Defense, along with allies and partners, employing approximately 400 U.S. and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations spanning 3,000 miles.

The monumental effort is made possible by extensive planning and coordination efforts throughout the Air Force, along with joint, allied and partner forces, which have shown the ready ability of combined joint forces to mobilize in great numbers for any contingency. In lockstep with PACAF, Air Mobility Command has provided critical airlift, air refueling and command and control capabilities to project, connect, maneuver and sustain joint forces.

“We’re witnessing a complex operation in the Indo-Pacific driven by logistics – rapid, deliberate and mission-driven,” said Brig. Gen. Athanasia Shinas, mobilization assistant to PACAF’s director of logistics. “Our Total Force concept is critical to this capability, leveraging the unparalleled expertise and diverse talent drawn from every industry and sector of society through our Guard and Reserve. This integration creates extraordinary opportunities to strengthen our Total Force and coalition Airmen.”

Airmen are exercising robust contested logistics and engineering capabilities, sustainment over vast distances, fuel resupply and access to forward operating locations.

U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron stand by for mission operations in support of Department-Level Exercise 2025 as part of the 374th Air Expeditionary Wing at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 14, 2025. Through this DLE, the Department of the Air Force is preparing to be a stronger, more lethal deterrent force, to provide an advantage against competitors and adversaries across all domains, and to ensure regional stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Kayla Karelas)
U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron stand by for mission operations in support of Department-Level Exercise 2025 as part of the 374th Air Expeditionary Wing at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 14, 2025. Through this DLE, the Department of the Air Force is preparing to be a stronger, more lethal deterrent force, to provide an advantage against competitors and adversaries across all domains, and to ensure regional stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Kayla Karelas)

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing disembark from a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft ahead of their support for exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 2025 at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 11, 2025. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, employing more than 400 Joint and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations across 3,000 miles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Andre Medina)
U.S. Airmen assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing disembark from a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft ahead of their support for exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 2025 at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 11, 2025. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, employing more than 400 Joint and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations across 3,000 miles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Andre Medina)

F-35s parked on flightline.
U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II’s from the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing park on the flight line in Guam for Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 25 exercise, July 12, 2025. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, employing more than 350 Joint and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations across 3,000 miles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Andrea Posey)

“This is a logistical movement at an unprecedented scale – an explosive surge into the theater driven by precision and a resilient joint network,” said Brig. Gen. Mike Zuhlsdorf, PACAF director of logistics, engineering and force protection. “What makes it exceptional is the partnership with local leaders abroad, as well as infrastructure; their participatory enthusiasm has turned REFORPAC into a truly integrated regional effort. This support brings essential access and shared purpose to an extraordinary training landscape.”

The tested Agile Combat Employment operational strategy, used to support joint operations, has prepared sites throughout the theater. ACE preparations have included shoring up building infrastructure and ensuring a constant flow of critical supplies, all to facilitate uninterrupted mission execution during the exercise.

“PACAF continually seeks to improve our readiness to respond to any contingency, defend the interests of the United States and work closely together with our allies and partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Schneider said.

 

Posted on

Defense News in Brief: Rescue squadrons unite, strengthen interoperability during REFORPAC

Source: United States Airforce

Resolute Force Pacific highlights how exercises strengthen combined capability and coordination for real-world contingencies across the Indo-Pacific region.

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) —  Airmen of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force Air Rescue Wing, the U.S. Air National Guard’s 102nd Rescue Squadron, and the 130th Rescue Squadron came together for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025 at Misawa Air Base, July 15.

The event featured aircraft from both nations, including a JASDF UH-60J helicopter and U-125A search-and-rescue coordination aircraft, as well as a U.S. Air Force HC-130J Combat King II from the 102nd Rescue Squadron.

“The goal of the capabilities briefing and aircraft tours was to enable partner nation integration and foster mutual understanding among our rescue squadrons,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Richard Conner, 130th Rescue Squadron HC-130J rescue loadmaster. “This lays the groundwork for future collaboration in the INDOPACOM area, which is a part of our unit’s mission.”

The static display was one of many engagements conducted as part of REFORPAC, a Pacific Air Forces-led contingency readiness exercise nested under the Department of the Air Force’s new Department-Level Exercise series. This DLE is a first-in-a-generation approach to preparing for operations in contested, dynamic environments, spanning more than 50 locations and involving more than 12,000 joint and coalition personnel and over 400 aircraft.

 

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 102nd and 130th Air Rescue Squadrons are shown a Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) Air Rescue Wing UH-60J helicopter for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 2025 at Misawa Air Base, July 15, 2025.
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 102nd and 130th Air Rescue Squadrons are shown a Japan Air Self-Defense Force Air Rescue Wing UH-60J helicopter for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025 at Misawa Air Base, July 15, 2025. The interaction reinforces REFORPAC’s goal to deepen allied coordination and advance shared security objectives in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Koby Mitchell)

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 102nd and 130th Rescue Squadrons are shown a Japan Air Self-Defense Force Air Rescue Wing U-125A search-and-rescue coordination aircraft for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) at Misawa Air Base, July 15, 2025.
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 102nd and 130th Rescue Squadrons are shown a Japan Air Self-Defense Force Air Rescue Wing U-125A search-and-rescue coordination aircraft for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) at Misawa Air Base, July 15, 2025. Events like this highlight how REFORPAC strengthens combined capability and coordination for real-world contingencies across the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Koby Mitchell)

A Japan Air Self-Defense Force Airman assigned to the Air Rescue Wing displays the internals of a UH-60J helicopter for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 2025 at Misawa Air Base, July 15, 2025.
A Japan Air Self-Defense Force Airman assigned to the Air Rescue Wing displays the internals of a UH-60J helicopter for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025 at Misawa Air Base, July 15, 2025. These exchanges support REFORPAC’s objective to improve understanding and reinforce multilateral response readiness in contested environments. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Koby Mitchell)

Throughout the display, participating Airmen discussed aircraft capabilities and differences in personnel recovery methods.

“One notable difference is in the pararescue insertion methods,” Conner said. “JASDF Pararescue typically insert via hoist from the UH-60J, since their fixed-wing aircraft belong to the Airlift Command. Meanwhile, our HC-130J enables personnel airdrops, which allows our Pararescue to get to the fight.”

Conner also pointed out technical details that stood out during the tour.

“I was surprised to see the UH-60J outfitted with external fuel tanks — that really extends its loiter time,” he added.

More than a showcase of equipment, the event fostered personal relationships, improved operational communication and strengthened shared tactics.

“This event is extremely important in building a framework for further cooperation,” Conner said. “It puts faces and names to specific units and enables us to fly real-world missions together during REFORPAC. By briefing and mission planning together, we’re able to execute helicopter air-to-air refueling and speak the same language and brevity terms while flying in close formation over the Sea of Japan.”

The visit concluded with a group photo symbolizing shared commitment among the rescue units. A common thread across all participating squadrons stood out: their shared motto, That Others May Live.

“Everyone got a kick out of the fact that our units all share the same motto,” Conner said. “It’s a powerful reminder that no matter the uniform, our mission is the same.

 

 

Posted on

Defense News in Brief: US, Australian C-17s spearhead multinational joint force entry during Talisman Sabre 25

Source: United States Airforce

QUEENSLAND, Australia (AFNS) —  

Multiple U.S. Air Force and Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster IIIs executed a joint force-entry operation into Australia, deploying U.S. Army and international paratroopers in support of Talisman Sabre 25.

Originating from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, the mission spanned the immense distances of the Pacific, sustained by U.S. Air Force aerial refueling operations. It culminated in the precision insertion of 314 U.S. Army 11th Airborne Division, Australian Defence Force and German Army paratroopers into a designated drop zone in eastern Australia.

“We employ large formations to quickly and effectively place mass at the time and place of our choosing,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christopher Bukowski, 535th Airlift Squadron, 15th Wing, director of operations. “Executing a drop like this at speed and scale, and in conjunction with our allies and joint partners, is crucial to honing that skill and sending a deterrent message to our adversaries.”

The one-way, trans-Pacific journey spanned over 6,200 miles and was conducted by 13 C-17 aircraft assigned to the 15th Wing, Pacific Air Forces, 437th Airlift Wing, Air Mobility Command, and 164th Airlift Wing, Tennessee Air National Guard, underscored the robust U.S.-Australia partnership and shared commitment to regional defense.

“Through the strategic employment of U.S. Air Force mobility aircraft, our highly proficient teams—operating in close coordination with partners and allies — refined the ability to project personnel and mission-critical material across the vast Pacific with precision and speed,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Ana Donohue, 535th Airlift Squadron C-17 pilot. “This critical capability was showcased during a recent joint forcible entry operation, where the air domain proved to be the decisive bridge between strategic airlift and ground-based objectives, enabling the rapid achievement of essential outcomes across a geographically expansive and demanding operational theater.”

The meticulous planning required for this complex joint force-entry operation extended months in advance of the Talisman Sabre 2025 exercise, highlighting the extensive coordination between allied forces.

Talisman Sabre, the largest bilateral military exercise between Australia and the United States, is pivotal to advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific. It fortifies relationships and interoperability among key allies and partners, concurrently enhancing collective capabilities to address a spectrum of complex security challenges.

Posted on

Defense News in Brief: U.S., the Philippines Conduct Maritime Cooperative Activity

Source: United States Navy

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the U.S. Navy, conducted a bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone, demonstrating a collective commitment to strengthen regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific, July 16.

Posted on

Defense News in Brief: SOUTHERN STAR ’25: 27th Special Operations Wing projects power with partners in Chile

Source: United States Airforce

The multinational training exercise emphasizes operational and tactical missions, bringing together joint, combined, interagency and military forces to strengthen coordination and interoperability within a unified special operations command.

SANTIAGO, Chile (AFNS) —  

From the sunbaked airstrips of Antofagasta to the bustling port of Valparaíso and the icy channels of Punta Arenas, elite troops from six nations dived into SOUTHERN STAR 25, Latin America’s premier multinational special operations exercise. Designed around a simulated United Nations stabilization mandate, the event brings together special forces from Chile, the United States, Spain, Argentina, Colombia and Paraguay, with 10 additional nations participating as observers.

A key part of the U.S. contribution is the 27th Special Operations Wing, whose aircraft and Air Commandos have delivered mobility, surveillance, and refueling capabilities across more than 3,700 kilometers of challenging terrain — an unmistakable demonstration of the U.S. commitment to its partners in the Southern Cone and the broader Western Hemisphere.

Deploying from Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, the 27 SOW brought two of the most versatile aircraft in the U.S. Air Force’s arsenal: the MC-130J Commando II and the U-28A Draco. Designed to thrive in austere, high-threat environments, these platforms were crucial to the operational tempo and complexity of SOUTHERN STAR 25.

“We’re closely integrated with our joint partners in U.S. Special Operations Command and that partnership drives how we operate across the world. Down here in Chile, we are integrating and providing the same type of support to the exercise that we would anywhere else in the world if there’s a special operations mission set going on,” said Lt. Col. Graydon Sponaugle, 27 SOW mission commander for SOUTHERN STAR 25.

An Air Commando assigned to the 27th Special Operations Wing pulls a hose connected to an MC-130 Commando II for a forward arming and refueling point demonstration for Chilean Airmen at Antofagasta, Chile, May 29, 2025 as part of Southern Star 2025
An Air Commando assigned to the 27th Special Operations Wing pulls a hose connected to an MC-130 Commando II for a forward arming and refueling point demonstration for Chilean Airmen at Antofagasta, Chile, May 29, 2025, as part of Southern Star 25. Southern Star is a multinational training exercise emphasizing operational and tactical missions, bringing together joint, combined, interagency, and military forces to strengthen coordination and interoperability within a unified special operations command. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gracelyn Hess)

U.S. and Chilean Air Commandos work together to process intelligence video from multiple platforms, including the U-28A Draco, in Rancagua, Chile, June 2, 2025, as part of exercise SOUTHERN STAR 25.
U.S. and Chilean Air Commandos work together to process intelligence video from multiple platforms, including the U-28A Draco, in Rancagua, Chile, June 2, 2025, as part of exercise SOUTHERN STAR 25. Southern Star ’25 is a multinational special operations exercise across Chile from May 26 to June 8. The exercise brings together forces from six nations and 10 observer countries to enhance interoperability and strengthen global special operations partnerships through joint training from Antofagasta to Punta Arenas. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gracelyn Hess)

A U-28A Draco from the 27th Special Operations Wing provides surveillance over a visit, board, search, and seizure training exercise involving Air Commandos, Chilean Special Forces, Navy Seals, and the Chilean Navy in Valparaiso, Chile, June 6, 2025, as part of exercise SOUTHERN STAR 25.
A U-28A Draco from the 27th Special Operations Wing provides surveillance over a Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure training exercise involving Air Commandos, Chilean Special Forces, Navy Seals, and the Chilean Navy in Valparaiso, Chile, June 6, 2025, as part of exercise SOUTHERN STAR 25. The exercise is a multinational special operations exercise taking place across Chile from May 26 to June 8. The exercise brings together forces from six nations and 10 observer countries to enhance interoperability and strengthen global special operations partnerships through joint training from Antofagasta to Punta Arenas. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)

In Antofagasta, Air Commandos conducted a forward arming and refueling point demonstration using the MC-130J, showcasing to Chilean airmen how expeditionary refueling operations can sustain special operation forces units operating far from traditional bases. The very next day, the same aircraft supported static line jump training for Chilean paratroopers, or paracaidistas, who practiced airborne insertion techniques alongside U.S. aircrews, strengthening tactical interoperability and deepening trust between the nations’ forces.

Meanwhile, the U-28A provided critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support across multiple mission profiles.

In Rancagua, U.S. Air Commandos established a satellite communications node to receive real-time full-motion video from the Draco in flight, illustrating the rapid ISR integration capabilities essential to success during fast-moving missions. Later in the exercise, in Valparaíso, the U-28A provided overwatch during a Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure training operation involving U.S. Navy SEALs, U.S. Air Commandos, Chilean Special Forces, and the Chilean Navy. The mission enhanced maritime interdiction capabilities while exemplifying the layered coordination enabled by airborne ISR platforms.

Operating across a country as long and geographically diverse as Chile posed logistical challenges that tested every aspect of special operations capability — command, sustainment, adaptability, and communication. Yet, the 27 SOW thrived in this environment, reaffirming AFSOC’s ability to project power and sustain complex missions far from home. From austere airfields to maritime staging areas, the wing’s involvement helped exercise vital capabilities such as the protection of sea lines of communication and affirmed U.S. and partner readiness near strategic regions like the approaches to the Antarctic.

SOUTHERN STAR 25 also served as a proving ground for innovation. With their involvement in distributed mission planning, real-time ISR delivery and satellite communications, the Air Commandos contributed to emerging integration efforts across the space and cyber domains. These forward-leaning efforts, paired with proven platforms like the MC-130J and U-28A, point toward a future in which special operations forces can operate even more effectively across domains and coalition partnerships.

“Southern Star has helped demonstrate, yet again, how the U.S. can integrate with anyone across the world to achieve common objectives — and do so in a mutually beneficial manner,” Sponaugle said.

From airborne operations and tactical refueling to maritime ISR overwatch and technology integration, the 27 SOW’s performance during SOUTHERN STAR 25 was a testament to the strength of partner cooperation and the versatility of AFSOC. As the U.S. and its partners continue to face evolving global security challenges, exercises like this not only prepare forces for what lies ahead — they strengthen the partnerships and interoperability that will define success in the years to come.

Posted on

Defense News in Brief: REFORPAC 2025: U.S. Air Force executes unprecedented surge into Pacific theater

Source: United States Airforce

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AFNS) —  Over the last week, U.S. Pacific Air Forces accomplished a rapid, mass deployment and reception of personnel, equipment and aircraft to multiple locations in the Indo-Pacific theater of operations for Exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025.

“We’ve seen amazing global teamwork completing an incredible lift to kick off REFORPAC,” said Gen. Kevin Schneider, PACAF commander. “Airmen have innovated and overcome tough obstacles to get critical pieces in place, demonstrating our collective capability to project decisive air power into and throughout the Indo-Pacific with dramatic speed and scale.”

The U.S. Air Force, alongside its joint allies and partners, will continue to train and integrate over the next several weeks, enhancing interoperability and readiness across the Pacific theater. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, a new way the Air Force is exercising to conduct large operations in contested, dynamic environments. The aim is to improve interoperability and multilateral cooperation, leading to a stronger, more capable, deterrent force.

The DLE series encompasses all branches of the Department of Defense, along with allies and partners, employing approximately 400 U.S. and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations spanning 3,000 miles.

The monumental effort is made possible by extensive planning and coordination efforts throughout the Air Force, along with joint, allied and partner forces, which have shown the ready ability of combined joint forces to mobilize in great numbers for any contingency. In lockstep with PACAF, Air Mobility Command has provided critical airlift, air refueling and command and control capabilities to project, connect, maneuver and sustain joint forces.

“We’re witnessing a complex operation in the Indo-Pacific driven by logistics – rapid, deliberate and mission-driven,” said Brig. Gen. Athanasia Shinas, mobilization assistant to PACAF’s director of logistics. “Our Total Force concept is critical to this capability, leveraging the unparalleled expertise and diverse talent drawn from every industry and sector of society through our Guard and Reserve. This integration creates extraordinary opportunities to strengthen our Total Force and coalition Airmen.”

Airmen are exercising robust contested logistics and engineering capabilities, sustainment over vast distances, fuel resupply and access to forward operating locations.

U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron stand by for mission operations in support of Department-Level Exercise 2025 as part of the 374th Air Expeditionary Wing at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 14, 2025. Through this DLE, the Department of the Air Force is preparing to be a stronger, more lethal deterrent force, to provide an advantage against competitors and adversaries across all domains, and to ensure regional stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Kayla Karelas)
U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron stand by for mission operations in support of Department-Level Exercise 2025 as part of the 374th Air Expeditionary Wing at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 14, 2025. Through this DLE, the Department of the Air Force is preparing to be a stronger, more lethal deterrent force, to provide an advantage against competitors and adversaries across all domains, and to ensure regional stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Kayla Karelas)

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing disembark from a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft ahead of their support for exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 2025 at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 11, 2025. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, employing more than 400 Joint and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations across 3,000 miles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Andre Medina)
U.S. Airmen assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing disembark from a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft ahead of their support for exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 2025 at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 11, 2025. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, employing more than 400 Joint and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations across 3,000 miles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Andre Medina)

F-35s parked on flightline.
U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II’s from the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing park on the flight line in Guam for Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 25 exercise, July 12, 2025. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, employing more than 350 Joint and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations across 3,000 miles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Andrea Posey)

“This is a logistical movement at an unprecedented scale – an explosive surge into the theater driven by precision and a resilient joint network,” said Brig. Gen. Mike Zuhlsdorf, PACAF director of logistics, engineering and force protection. “What makes it exceptional is the partnership with local leaders abroad, as well as infrastructure; their participatory enthusiasm has turned REFORPAC into a truly integrated regional effort. This support brings essential access and shared purpose to an extraordinary training landscape.”

The tested Agile Combat Employment operational strategy, used to support joint operations, has prepared sites throughout the theater. ACE preparations have included shoring up building infrastructure and ensuring a constant flow of critical supplies, all to facilitate uninterrupted mission execution during the exercise.

“PACAF continually seeks to improve our readiness to respond to any contingency, defend the interests of the United States and work closely together with our allies and partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Schneider said.

 

Posted on

Defense News in Brief: USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) and JMSDF Submarine Conduct a Bilateral Exercise

Source: United States Navy

From Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Providakes

YOKOSUKA, Japan – The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) and a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) submarine conducted Submarine Exercise 25-1 (SUBEX) in the Pacific Ocean, July 12, 2025.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 12, 2025) – The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) and a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) submarine steam alongside one another during Submarine Exercise (SUBEX) 25-1, in the Pacific Ocean, July 12, 2025. SUBEX 25-1 was a two-day exercise between the U.S. Navy and JMSDF in the vicinity of Yokosuka to advance joint submarine capabilities and operations. CSG 7 directs forward-deployed, combat capable forces across the full spectrum of undersea warfare throughout the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea. (Photo courtesy of JMSDF.)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 12, 2025) – The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) and a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) submarine steam alongside one another during Submarine Exercise (SUBEX) 25-1, in the Pacific Ocean, July 12, 2025. SUBEX 25-1 was a two-day exercise between the U.S. Navy and JMSDF in the vicinity of Yokosuka to advance joint submarine capabilities and operations. CSG 7 directs forward-deployed, combat capable forces across the full spectrum of undersea warfare throughout the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea. (Photo courtesy of JMSDF.)

This bilateral exercise portrayed the interoperability and cooperation between the U.S. Navy and JMSDF, showcasing Santa Fe and the JMSDF submarine’s capability to work together while underway in the Indo-Pacific.

“We enjoy a strong bond with our dear partners and friends in the Japanese Submarine Force,” said Rear Adm. Lincoln Reifsteck, commander, Submarine Group 7 (CSG 7). “This submarine exercise is just one of dozens of operations our combined forces are planning or executing day in and day out. We take every opportunity to enhance the integration of our undersea forces, reaffirming our commitment to a shared vision of peace and prosperity for our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.”

SUBEX 25-1 was a two-day exercise conducted in the vicinity of Yokosuka between the U.S. Navy and JMSDF, in order to make significant advancements in the joint submarine capabilities and operations. Exercises like this bolster the U.S. and JMSDF momentum in critical undersea warfare and mutual defense.

Both submarine forces continue to work together and progress every day to seamlessly interoperate with each other. This dedication to mutual understanding and shared values of peace and security in the Indo-Pacific reflects the steadfast bonds between the two silent services.

Santa Fe, homeported in San Diego, California, and assigned to Submarine Squadron 11, is conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

CSG 7 directs forward-deployed, combat capable forces across the full spectrum of undersea warfare throughout the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Group 7, visit www.csp.navy.mil/csg7/