U.S. Marines Revolutionize International Naval Exercise with Cutting-Edge Skills

The recent Phoenix Express exercise concluded with significant developments in maritime security operations. The event, lasting ten days, brought together diverse forces including the U.S. Marines from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, and Headquarters and Service Battalion within the 2nd Marine Logistics Group.

These units collaborated with the U.S. Coast Guard, focusing on countering weapons of mass destruction through Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) identification and handling. They also explored mechanical and thermal breaching alongside sensitive site exploitation techniques.

One key aspect of the exercise was Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) training. This training emphasized maritime security operations, fostering collaboration with allied and partner nations. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Nick Confortini highlighted the importance of these skills, noting enhanced cooperation and joint capabilities achieved through the exercise.

CBRN preparedness was a crucial objective, ensuring that the U.S. and its allies can efficiently respond to incidents and restore normal operations swiftly. The Marines demonstrated breaching techniques to overcome barriers and shared strategies for gathering evidence during operations.

Phoenix Express serves as a platform for North African, European, and U.S. forces to collaborate and refine their maritime safety techniques. The exercise strengthens deterrence against sea-based illegal activities and protects NATO’s southern borders.

Nations involved in Phoenix Express included Algeria, Belgium, Georgia, Italy, Libya, Malta, Mauritania, Morocco, Tunisia, Türkiye, Senegal, and the United States. This multinational exercise is a part of a broader strategy led by U.S. Naval Forces Africa to enhance maritime security through collaboration.

The Commander of the U.S. Sixth Fleet, based in Naples, Italy, plays a pivotal role in these exercises, working with allies to ensure the stability and security of both Europe and Africa.