U.S. Military and Kuwait Armed Forces Collaborate in Exercise Eager Defender 24

Photo By Gunnery Sgt. Victor Mancilla | MUHAMMAD AL AHMED NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Jan. 31, 2024) Marines, Sailors, Soldiers and Kuwaiti armed forces members with the Combined Joint Task Force conduct various scenario wargames during exercise Eager Defender 24 onboard Muhammad Al Ahmed Naval Base, Kuwait, Jan. 31. Eager Defender 24 is the capstone in a series of bilateral exercises between Kuwait and U.S. naval forces, focused on enhancing mutual capabilities and interoperability in maritime security operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo)  

KUWAIT

01.28.2024

Story by Staff Sgt. Victor Mancilla   

Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade

[Kuwait City, Kuwait] - The Kuwait Naval Force, Kuwait Coast Guard, U.S Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command (MARCENT) have joined forces in Exercise Eager Defender 24, a bilateral maritime drill aimed at strengthening mutual interoperability and capabilities. This exercise, led by Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (TF 51/5), taking place in Kuwait and the North Arabian Gulf from January 28 to February 7, showcases the commitment of both nations to regional security and readiness.

Under the umbrella of Exercise Eager Defender, U.S. Marines, Sailors and Soldiers are participating alongside their Kuwaiti counterparts in joint training. The exercise focuses on enhancing various aspects, including maritime security, visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS), harbor security, unmanned systems operations, small unit naval infantry tactics, and joint command and control operations, culminating with a combined multinational amphibious assault. Through collaborative training, participating forces will acquire the necessary skills to effectively address regional security threats and increase interoperability between both militaries.

Exercise Eager Defender serves as a testament to the enduring partnership between the United States and Kuwait. It demonstrates the commitment of both nations to reinforcing partnerships and interoperability in the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. This exercise is one of several annual joint exercises where the U.S. military collaborates with partner nations, ensuring high levels of readiness for crisis and contingency.

"Exercise Eager Defender highlights our shared commitment to regional security and the preservation of peace," said Brig. Gen. Matthew Reid, Commanding General of TF 51/5. "By working together, the Kuwait Armed Forces and U.S. military are strengthening our capabilities and preparedness. This exercise is a testament to the enduring partnership between our nations."

Exercise Eager Defender reaffirms the strong bond between the Kuwait Armed Forces and the U.S. military. By fostering cooperation and mutual understanding, this exercise further enhances the ability of both nations to respond effectively to security challenges in the region.

For more information about TF 51/5 visit our website www.TF515.marines.mil or subscribe to our DVIDS page at www.dvidshub.net/feature/EagerDefender24, contact TF 51/5 Gunnery Sgt. Victor Mancilla at [e-mail] or Capt. Stephanie Baer at [e-mail].

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• Date Taken: 01.28.2024
• Date Posted: 01.28.2024 05:55
• Story ID: 462576
• Location: KW