UNITAS LXV Kicks Off with Exciting New Chapter

VALPARAISO, Chile – Navy and Marine forces have descended on Valparaiso to participate in UNITAS LXV, the longest-running multinational maritime exercise in the world, which began on September 2, 2024.

The Chilean navy is this year’s host, featuring a diverse assembly of 17 warships, two submarines, 20 aircraft, and over 4,300 personnel from 24 nations. The exercises will be conducted off the coast of Valparaiso and near Puerto Aldea until September 12.

Rear Adm. Rich Lofgren, Deputy Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet, emphasized the importance of forging strong relationships through various activities ashore, including subject matter exchanges, operations briefs, and a Women, Peace, and Security symposium. “Creating these spaces to build relationships on shore will pay dividends at sea and beyond,” he said.

“Sailors go to sea,” Lofgren noted. “I look forward to conducting combined and joint operations. We will enhance our capabilities and improve interoperability – together.”

UNITAS, meaning “unity” in Latin, was first conceived in 1959 through the Inter-American Naval Conference. Adm. Arleigh Burke, U.S. Chief of Naval Operations at that time, had commended its inception for building strong inter-navy communication systems. The first UNITAS took place in 1960.

This 65th iteration sees participation from 24 nations including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, and many others. The goal is to train forces in joint maritime operations, enhancing tactical proficiency and interoperability.

The UNITAS LXV Opening Ceremony marked the start of various initial-phase activities such as professional symposia and ship rider exchanges. Specific training events in Valparaiso will cover medical, cyber defense, and diving operations.

The second phase will include rigorous tests on warfare operations like live-fire exercises and amphibious landings. Unmanned systems will also play a significant role, marking their second-year return in the exercises.

The U.S. will be represented by various forces including USS Germantown, USS St Louis, and USS Hampton, among others. Leadership will be provided by Commander, Destroyer Squadron 40, Commander, Amphibious Squadron Seven, and other units.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet aims to support joint military operations in the region, maintaining security and enhancing partnerships within the Caribbean, Central, and South American regions.

U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South is committed to planning and executing exercises, operations, and overall Marine Corps support within the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility.