U.S. and Malaysian Military Strengthen Ties at CARAT Malaysia 2024

The Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) series is marking its 30th anniversary as a testament to U.S.-Malaysia defense collaboration. This year’s CARAT Malaysia showcased an extensive range of naval capabilities, further cementing a partnership that spans four decades.

U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia, Edgard Kagan, remarked, “Our security partnership with Malaysia is not only fundamental to the U.S.-Malaysia Comprehensive Partnership but also vital to regional stability.” A total of 14 joint military exercises are conducted annually to reinforce the commitment to peace in the Indo-Pacific.

The exercises included comprehensive naval training for both countries, underlining their shared goal of a secure and open Indo-Pacific. The shore phase included specialist exchanges as well as joint training focusing on key areas like aviation, cyber security, maritime law enforcement, and information sharing.

At sea, training took place in the Strait of Malacca. Here, U.S. Navy ships joined the Royal Malaysian Navy in a series of exercises aimed at enhancing communication and building interoperability through complex maneuvers. Key areas of focus included surface warfare, diving and salvage operations, and maritime security procedures.

First Admiral Dr. Tay Yap Leong of the Royal Malaysian Navy emphasized the significance of these exercises, stating that they serve as both a training platform and a robust testament to shared regional security goals. “Lessons learned here are crucial for future challenges, demonstrating that our strength lies in our unity,” he affirmed.

Malaysia has participated in CARAT since 1995, and CARAT Malaysia 2024 continues this legacy of maritime engagement with the U.S. Navy. This longstanding collaboration aims at enhancing mutual capabilities for ensuring maritime security and stability.

This year’s U.S. participation included naval assets such as the guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey, alongside helicopters and maritime patrol aircraft. Personnel from various U.S. fleet commands also took part. The Royal Malaysian Navy contributed vessels and aircraft including offshore patrol vessels, mission ships, and fighter jets.

As the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed destroyer squadron in Southeast Asia, DESRON 7 plays a crucial role in coordinating littoral combat ships and strengthening regional partnerships through military training and engagements.

The U.S. 7th Fleet, the largest forward-deployed naval force, frequently operates with allies to maintain the freedom and openness of the Indo-Pacific region, underscoring its strategic significance.