US and Kuwait naval forces conduct joint maritime exercise in Arabian Gulf

Middle East, News, US February 2, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command conducted a joint maritime drill with the Kuwait Naval Force and Coast Guard. The naval forces of the two countries are training in the Arabian Gulf from January 28 to February 7, 2024.

The U.S. and Kuwait forces conducting a bilateral maritime exercise “Eager Defender 24” to strengthen mutual interoperability and capabilities. The exercise is being led by the U.S. Marine Corps unit Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade and the U.S. Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers are participating alongside their Kuwaiti counterparts.

The naval forces of both countries conducted maritime security drills by practicing joint patrols and tactical maneuvering to strengthen interoperability and better protect the North Arabian Gulf.

According to the U.S. CENTCOM statement, “The exercise focuses on enhancing various aspects, including maritime security, visit, board, search and seizure, harbor security, unmanned systems operations, small unit naval infantry tactics, and joint command and control operations, culminating with a combined multinational amphibious assault.”

“Through collaborative training, participating forces will acquire the necessary skills to effectively address regional security threats and increase interoperability between both militaries,” the statement added.

Commanding General of Task Force 51/5, Brig. Gen. Matthew Reid said, “Exercise Eager Defender highlights our shared commitment to regional security and the preservation of peace.”

U.S. Brig. Gen. Reid added, “By working together, the Kuwait Armed Forces and the U.S. military are strengthening our capabilities and preparedness. This exercise is a testament to the enduring partnership between our nations.”

U.S. and Kuwait joint maritime security patrol exercise in Arabian Gulf — ^{The Kuwait Naval Force missile boat Al-Saadi (P 3723), Kuwait Coast Guard fast patrol boat Marzoug (P 314), U.S. Coast Guard patrol boats USCGC Aquidneck (WPB 1309) and USCGC Monomoy (WPB 1326) steam in formation during a joint maritime security patrol exercise in the Arabian Gulf. (Image Credit: U.S. Navy/Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Anthony Collier)}

The U.S. Marine Corps released a statement highlighting that the exercise promotes cooperation and mutual understanding between the forces of the U.S. and Kuwait and strengthens the capability of both countries to effectively address security challenges in the region.

“Exercise Eager Defender serves as a testament to the enduring partnership between the United States and Kuwait.. and reaffirms the strong bond between the Kuwait Armed Forces and the U.S. military,” it added.

Eager Defender is one of several annual joint exercises between the U.S. and Kuwait. It ensures the readiness of the U.S. military and partner nations in times of crisis and contingency. The exercise demonstrates the shared commitment of both nations to strengthen partnerships and interoperability within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.