Two US Navy carriers join Japan destroyer on Multi-Large Deck Event in Philippine Sea

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group (CSG), Theodore Roosevelt CSG and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) conducted a Multi-Large Deck Event (MLDE) in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 31, Report informs, citing the US Navy.

MLDE provided the two maritime forces an opportunity to engage in joint operations to include enhanced maritime communication operations, air warfare operations and cross-deck flight operations to strengthen maritime integrated-at-sea operations and combat readiness.

The event, conducted in accordance with international law in international waters, saw the participation of US Navy CSGs, led by their flagships, and JMSDF’s Hyuga-class helicopter destroyer JS Ise.

“The US and Japan are uniquely capable of rapidly assembling multiple large-deck naval forces in support of mutual security interests in the Indo Pacific. Our ability to rapidly aggregate and work collectively alongside the JMSDF and the Theodore Roosevelt strike group is positive proof,” said Rear Adm. Carlos Sardiello, commander, CSG-1. “Events like these are not new. The Vinson strike group has conducted similar operations since 2001, and most recently in November 2023 along with the Ronald Reagan CSG and the JMSDF in the Philippine Sea.”

During this multi-day event, ships and aircraft from the allied forces flew and sailed in accordance with international law in international waters while conducting air defense drills, sea surveillance, cross-deck exercises and tactical maneuvers to advance unique high-end warfighting capability.

“The purpose of this training is to improve the tactical skill and interoperability with the US Navy,” said JMSDF Rear Adm. SHIMIZU Hitoshi, commander of Escort Flotilla 2. “Our relationship is committed to regional peace and stability.”

Coordinated maritime engagements and operations in the Philippine Sea are part of the US Navy’s routine presence in the Indo-Pacific.