HAWAII (TVBS News) — The U.S. Pacific Fleet kicked started the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) on June 27 (Thursday), the world's largest international maritime exercise, in Hawaii amid escalating tensions between China and the United States.
Established in 1971 by Australia, Canada, and the U.S., RIMPAC 2024, the annual drill draws the armed forces of 29 countries for five weeks of rigorous training to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.
At Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, state-of-the-art aircraft, including the stealth F-35C and the E/A-18G Growler, showcased their capabilities. The event was marked by the launch of six squadrons of Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, performing steep ascents that captivated aviation enthusiasts.
Defence International's editor-in-chief, Chen Kuo-ming, noted the strategic benefits of the exercise, explaining how U.S. Navy aircraft carriers manage training and replacements efficiently during such drills. He highlighted the readiness support provided by nearby air stations in case of any aircraft damage or failures.
Participants from various countries, including two South Korean destroyers, the ROKS Chungmugong Yi Sun-sin (DDH-975) and the ROKS Yulgok Yi I (DDG-992), have converged in Hawaii for RIMPAC. The Chungmugong Yi Sun-sin is outfitted with robust ship cannons and missiles, while the Yulgok Yi I is equipped with over 120 missiles and anti-submarine torpedoes, capable of accommodating 300 personnel.
South Korean Officer Rha from the ROKS Yulgok Yi I emphasized the importance of RIMPAC, stating, "We came here to participate in this multinational exercise with all these different nations to build and strengthen our Interoperability." With China's growing military presence in maritime regions, the significance of this exercise continues to escalate.