The train kicked off with the institution of three Bilateral Floor Tactical Coordination Facilities (BGTCCs) at three totally different places within the Nansei Islands the place Marines from the 3d Marine Division, twelfth Marine Regiment, and 3d Battalion, twelfth Marines labored with their Japan Floor Self-Protection Power (JGSDF) counterparts to plan and coordinate operations collectively. Whereas the BGTCC is a comparatively new idea, these bilateral command and management nodes had been employed and additional developed by twelfth Marines and the JGSDF throughout a number of workouts over the previous yr to incorporate Resolute Dragon 22, Eager Edge 22, and Resolute Dragon 21. From a broader perspective, the train demonstrates a dedication from Japan and the USA to mutual protection and regional safety.
“The mission of twelfth Marines, significantly right here, is to make sure that we will hyperlink the numerous capabilities of the Japan Self-Protection Power, again to the joint drive, and put the U.S. joint drive in assist of them. Each rep and set we will get working with any of our companions is vital to us. Battle will at all times be an allied effort,” stated Col. Jonathan N. Sims, commanding officer of twelfth Marine Regiment.
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“The BGTCC is much like a fight operations middle the place we de-conflict fireplace missions with the Japanese, in addition to acquire and alternate knowledge with different models inside the Marine Expeditionary Power and Division,” stated Sgt. Christian Secor, a satellite tv for pc communications operator with twelfth Marine Regiment.
“We had been doing an air assault from the usNew Orleans, however we actually demonstrated the potential to get to the place we wanted to go. The Amphibious Fast Deployment Brigade is a really succesful and keen drive. We all know that if we discover ourselves aspect by aspect with them we’re in an excellent place.,” stated Capt. Connor Keating, an organization commander with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines.
“This coaching permits us work with models and folks that put together us for a real-world deployment. With the ability to work with members of the JGSDF face-to-face helps enhance our understanding of the state of affairs and enhance communication,” stated Sgt. Javier Camilo, an information programs administrator with twelfth Marine Regiment.
In the meantime, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines launched into the usNew Orleans (LPD 18) and partnered with the JGSDF’s Amphibious Fast Deployment Brigade (ARDB) for an amphibious assault on the island of Tokunoshima. Throughout this operation, the ARDB secured the seaside coming from ship-to-shore in amphibious assault autos whereas the U.S. Marines offered bolstered with extra fight energy by way of MV-22B Ospreys. In a separate coaching occasion, one other group from the ARDB and 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines inserted by way of CH-47JA Chinooks and MV-22B Ospreys to safe and defend the distant island of Tsutara. Whereas Eager Sword is designed to strengthen interoperability and fight readiness, there’s additionally a relational part that comes from working intently with mates, companions, and allies.
