Ships from the USS Essex (LHD 2) Expeditionary Strike Group (ESX ESG) completed Exercise Talon Vision and Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) in the Philippines, Oct. 31. The two-week long exercises involved USS Juneau (LPD 10), USS Tortuga (LSD 46) and Marines from the III Marine Expeditionary Force. Essex participated after departing Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 26.
"Talon Vision and PHIBLEX were a great success," said Capt. Anthony Pachuta, commander, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11, embarked aboard Juneau. "The bilateral training that occurred during the exercises was vital to maintaining readiness capabilities for both the U.S. and Philippine armed forces. It also demonstrated our partnership and commitment to the people of the Philippines."
The training exercises ran concurrently from Oct. 15-31, and partnered 2,700 U.S. and 1,300 Philippine military personnel for two weeks, emphasizing the importance of U.S. military forces from Japan contributing to the peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region.
"The exercises were conducted to facilitate interoperability, increase readiness and continue to improve professional relationships between the United States and the Philippines armed forces," said Tortuga Operations Officer, Lt. Robert D. Starks. "Bilateral training is part of the long-term security assistance program between the [Philippines] and U.S."
Training events during Talon Vision and PHIBLEX focused on a variety of sea and land-based capabilities. Both Tortuga and Juneau provided sea-based platforms for simulated Marine raids, and Sailors from both nations conducted simulated maritime interdiction operations as well as visit, board, search and seizure training.
"The Essex Expeditionary Strike Group is here to help foster peace and stability in the region," said Rear Adm. Carol Pottenger, commander, Combined Task Force 76, embarked aboard Essex. "We are ready, we are flexible and we provide significant capabilities that contribute to regional stability and security."
ESX ESG is comprised of the amphibious assault ship Essex, PHIBRON 11, the transport dock ship Tortuga, the dock landing ship Juneau, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Beach Master Unit 1 and Assault Craft Units 1 and 5. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit makes up the Marine force embarked with the ESG.