US, Australia, and UK forces conduct joint combined operations in South China Sea

The US Navy (USN), the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), and the UK Royal Navy (RN) joined together to conduct a link exercise, a coordinated manoeuvring exercise, and a variety of other combined operations in the South China Sea from February 6 to 7.

Participating units included the USN Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold, the RAN Hobart-class guided-missile destroyer HMAS Hobart, and the RN River-class offshore patrol vessel HMS Spey.

During the maritime training, the three ships exercised their ability to exchange data using their tactical datalink systems, while the manoeuvring exercise trained the crews’ ability to sail alongside each other in various conditions, improving the self-defence and communication capabilities of the three countries.

"Regular military engagements between the defence forces in the Indo-Pacific will help maintain regional security and stability," said Commodore Jonathan Ley, Joint Force Maritime Component Commander for Australia’s Headquarters Joint Operations Command.

"As one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes and home to almost two thirds of the world’s population, it is essential we are ready, willing and able to meet any challenge," said Ley.