The U.S. Navy’s Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) demonstrated impressive force and readiness by completing the Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in the Atlantic Ocean.
This achievement marks a significant advancement in naval combat readiness and interoperability.
The ARG-MEU COMPTUEXs are a pivotal component in the U.S. Navy’s strategy, highlighting the integration of Navy and Marine Corps forces in conjunction with Joint Force and State Department trainers.
This exercise serves as the Department of the Navy’s pledge to deliver capable, unified naval forces that serve to deter adversaries, reassure allies, ensure the free flow of trade and commerce, and bolster U.S. diplomatic efforts.
Vice Adm. Doug Perry, commander of the U.S. Second Fleet and Joint Force Command Norfolk, underlined the importance of consistent training and readiness, stating, “You must continue to train and be at your highest level of performance and competitive advantage every day.”
His emphasis on collaboration with allies and maintaining mission focus and leadership underscores the critical role that these forces play in upholding a rules-based order essential to both U.S. and Allied security.
The COMPTUEX featured a range of integrated events designed to showcase the ARG-MEU’s capabilities, including live-fire drills, maritime security operations, amphibious landings, and counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) engagements.
Notably, the exercise incorporated a transfer of authority from national to NATO command, a testament to the growing collaboration between U.S. forces and NATO allies in maintaining global peace and stability.
Col. Todd Mahar, Commanding Officer of the 24th MEU, spoke highly of the teamwork exhibited during the exercise, “The Marines and Sailors built an integrated ‘Team of Teams’ that showcased naval warfighting capability to assure our partners and allies and deter our potential adversaries.”
Following the success of the COMPTUEX, the 24th MEU achieved the designation as Special Operations Capable (SOC), demonstrating their ability to perform specialized Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) roles that support theater campaigns and crisis response.
The exercise also served as a testing ground for new systems like the En-Route Care System (ERCS) and the Expeditionary Resuscitative Surgical System (ERSS), enhancing the Navy and Joint Force’s expeditionary medical capabilities to improve survivability across all care spectrums.
Moreover, the integration of U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team (MSRT) East and USCG cutters Stone and Angela McShan in the exercise showcased a multi-service approach to increase proficiency and preparedness.
The WSP ARG includes the USS Wasp (LHD 1), USS New York (LPD 21), and USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), paired with the 24th MEU’s Battalion Landing Team 1/8, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 24.
It represents a formidable, rapidly deployable force ready to undertake a wide array of military operations.
This exercise reaffirms the Navy’s commitment to mentor, assess, and maintain high-performance levels across its carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups, preparing them for global combat scenarios against peer competitors.
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– Category: Front Page, Seapower