Three AUKUS countries conduct joint exercises in the East Sea

Last week, the navies of the US, Australia and the UK - countries participating in the AUKUS trilateral security treaty - conducted a two-day joint exercise in the South China Sea.

Mỹ, Australia và Anh tập trận chung ở Biển Đông

Sailors aboard the US Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold provide flight support to a Royal Australian Navy MH-60R Seahawk helicopter during a joint exercise in the South China Sea. (Source: US Navy)

On February 11, the US Pacific Fleet announced that the exercise, taking place from February 6-7, will involve three modern warships: the US Navy's Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold, the Royal Australian Navy's Hobart-class guided-missile destroyer HMAS Hobart, and the Royal Navy's River-class offshore patrol vessel HMS Spey.

Speaking about the exercise, Rear Admiral Jonathan Ley, Commander of the Combined Naval Forces of the Australian Joint Operations Command, emphasized: "Regular military activities between defense forces in the Indo-Pacific region will contribute to maintaining regional security and stability."

He also pointed out the special importance of this region: "As one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes and home to nearly two-thirds of the world's population, we need to be ready, willing and able to face any challenge."

During the exercise, the three warships conducted many important training contents, including joint exercises and coordinated maneuvers.

The participating units focused on improving data exchange capabilities through tactical communication systems, while practicing ship control skills in different conditions, thereby strengthening defense and communication capabilities between the three countries.

The US Navy regularly operates with allies in the Indo-Pacific region to demonstrate a shared commitment to upholding international law.