Unveiling CARAT Brunei 2024 FINEX: A Glimpse into Tomorrow’s Naval Collaborations

The Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise in Brunei 2024 highlighted extensive participation from U.S. military assets, including staff from various Task Forces, the Marine Rotational Force – Southeast Asia (MRF-SEA), and the U.S. Embassy in Brunei. This year’s exercise focused on strengthening maritime relationships and cooperative security capabilities.

Rear Adm. Katie Sheldon, Vice Commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, emphasized the significance of the CARAT series in building maritime connections. Over the past week, forces from the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and Royal Brunei Armed Forces engaged in joint training to enhance their maritime security capabilities, fostering peace and stability in the region.

This iteration of CARAT featured a diverse range of expert exchange events, covering crucial topics such as cybersecurity, force protection, maritime domain awareness, and women, peace, and security. The exercise also included joint training on medical evacuations, mine countermeasures, and underwater demolition, underscoring the comprehensive nature of these drills.

Yang Mulia Colonel Aldi Bin Haji Hassan, Deputy Joint Force Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, highlighted the benefits of the exercise. The CARAT exercise facilitated seamless integration of the participating forces, enhancing both tactical and operational competencies. Beyond skills, it strengthened the relationships between the involved parties, contributing to regional peace and security.

CARAT Brunei 2024 underscored the shared commitment of the U.S. and Brunei to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. This bilateral exercise reflects the United States’ commitment to its allies, international law, and regional prosperity. The cooperative efforts underscore an enduring partnership and symbolize mutual trust.

Col. Stuart W. Glenn of the U.S. Marine Corps observed the exercise’s outcomes firsthand, acknowledging the progress made through collaborative efforts. The training demonstrated the strength of U.S.-Brunei cooperation, providing regional stability and security. Moving forward, such exercises aim to reinforce the strong partnership with Brunei counterparts.

With three decades of collaboration, CARAT Brunei continues to be a model of military cooperation, allowing both nations to adapt to evolving maritime security challenges. It highlights the enduring bond between the U.S. and Brunei in maintaining regional peace and security.