US Navy and Royal Brunei Armed Forces Launch Thrilling CARAT Brunei 2024 Exercises

CARAT Brunei 2024, a significant bilateral military exercise, is set to enhance regional security and strengthen maritime partnerships between the U.S. and Brunei. This year’s exercise marks the 30th anniversary of CARAT Brunei, focusing on a diverse range of training activities both onshore and at sea. These activities are designed to improve interoperability and cooperation between the two nations’ armed forces.

Rear Adm. Katie Sheldon, Vice Commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, emphasized the robust U.S.-Brunei partnership and highlighted the exercise’s importance in strengthening naval competencies. Participants will engage in various operations, including maritime domain awareness, anti-surface warfare, and underwater demolition, ensuring enhanced collective skills and understanding.

Marine Rotational Force – Southeast Asia (MRF-SEA) will work alongside Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) during the shore phase, focusing on force protection techniques such as martial arts and non-lethal riot control. The at-sea phase, held in the South China Sea, will involve collaborative training events between ships and aircraft from both nations.

The Chief of Staff of the Joint Force Headquarters Royal Brunei Armed Forces underscored the significance of CARAT in promoting mutual respect and collaboration. This partnership aims to build trust and shared purpose between the two countries, vital for navigating today’s security challenges.

U.S. assets participating in CARAT Brunei 2024 include diverse fleets and task forces, the USS Omaha, and experts from the U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. These forces contribute to security objectives with allies and ensure a persistent presence in the region.

The exercise underscores the United States’ unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific area through collaborative maritime security efforts.