Naval forces from the United Arab Emirates and the US began a 10-day maritime exercise, June 13, in the Arabian Gulf, Report informs referring to the website of the US Naval Forces Central Command.
Exercise Iron Defender is an annual bilateral training event between US Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and forces from the United Arab Emirates. The exercise focuses on maritime security operations, mine countermeasures and harbor defense.
“The United Arab Emirates is a longstanding strategic partner. This is an excellent opportunity to deepen bilateral ties and train with our highly capable Emirati partners,” said Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of NAVCENT, US 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces. “We are stronger when we work together.”
More than 600 US personnel from the US Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are participating.