Military preparing for RIMPAC 2018

DND ~

Over 1,000 Canadian sailors, soldiers, and aviators are set to participate in Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC). The world’s largest international maritime exercise takes place June 27 to Aug. 2 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.

During RIMPAC, forces will exercise a wide range of capabilities, from disaster relief to maritime security operations and complex war fighting.

Canada, along with Australia and the United States, has participated in every RIMPAC exercise since its inception in 1971.

“Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) continued participation reinforces Canada’s commitment to enhancing partnerships and security in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Rear-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie, Commander Joint Task Force RIMPAC. “RIMPAC offers a uniquely complex and challenging multinational environment for Canadian Armed Forces personnel to hone their skills. Our service men and women will represent Canada proudly, being leaders amongst allies.”

Royal Canadian Navy participation includes over 675 sailors. Two frigates, Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships Ottawa and Vancouver, and one Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment ship, MV Asterix, have deployed to Hawaii. Meanwhile two maritime coastal defence vessels, HMC Ships Yellowknife and Whitehorse, will operate off the coast of Southern California.

Approximately 170 soldiers from the Canadian Army are at Camp Pendleton in Southern California. This includes a dismounted Infantry company group from the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment.

The Royal Canadian Air Force is sending approximately 45 members with a CP-140 Maritime Patrol Aircraft and a deployable mission support centre.

Additional CAF personnel are serving various coalition staff functions to support the exercise. There is also a national command and support team to ensure continued operational, logistical, and administrative support to deployed elements.

Military preparing for RIMPAC 2018

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