New naval operation in Guam creates forum for Pacific nations

The inaugural Operation Irensia came to life last month with the Royal Australian Navy’s Maritime Security Advisors (MSAs) and Sea Training Group (STG), working in partnership with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in Guam.

CAPTION: A Republic of the Marshall Islands team from the Pacific Forum-class RMIS Lomor approaches the Guardian-class patrol ships PSS President HI Remeliik II from the Republic of Palau to run through a mock law enforcement boarding off Guam. Story by Leon Ha. Photo by Chief Petty Officer Aaron Wheeler.

Operation Irensia is the culmination of two years of meticulous planning and coordination by Navy’s MSAs and their USCG counterparts and highlights a deepening alliance between Australia and the US.

It has anchored Australia’s commitment in the Pacific, working together to achieve shared security objectives, build partner capacity and enhance interoperability in the pursuit to maintain peace, security and prosperity in the region.

The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Republic of Palau and Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) joined the operation – creating a forum for Pacific partner nations to strengthen the regional security architecture.

The week’s activities included an opening ceremony, a law enforcement and mock boarding subject matter exchange, a series of competitive seamanship and damage control drills, and practical at-sea exercises.

There were also social activities such as a beach barbecue and basketball tournament.

Commander US Coast Guard Forces Micronesia Captain Robert Kistner said Operation Irensia showcased collective capabilities and strengthened bonds between nations.

“This initiative, two years in the making, is a testament to our enduring commitment to the Pacific region,” he said.

“We are grateful to all our partners and eager for this to become an annual event, continuing to foster a legacy of collaboration and security.”

Patrol boats FSS Bethwel Henry (FSM), PSS President HI Remeliik II (Palau), and the RMIS Lomor 03 (RMI) – delivered by Australia to Pacific partners under the Pacific Maritime Security Program – were part of the operation.

Assistant Secretary of the Pacific Maritime Branch Liz Brierley said the collaboration was an exciting move.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with our partner, the USCG, to bring Operation Irensia to life,” Dr Brierley said.

Meaning ‘heritage’ in Chamorro, Irensia symbolises a shared commitment to preserving the security and prosperity of the Pacific region through enhanced interoperability and cooperative engagement.

 

 

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