The second round of the 2024 South Korea–U.S.–Japan Freedom Edge Exercise concluded successfully on Friday. The three nations enhanced interoperability across multiple domains through systematic and realistic training while further invigorating military exchange and cooperation.
Held amid increasing security threats, including North Korea’s ICBM test launches and strengthened Russia-North Korea military ties, the drill aimed to safeguard peace and stability in the region, particularly on the Korean Peninsula. The exercise involved the U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73), South Korea–U.S.–Japan Aegis destroyers, fighter jets, and maritime patrol aircraft. For the first time, F-35 stealth fighter jets, designed for precision strikes on key North Korean facilities, participated in the drill.
Throughout the exercise, the allied forces engaged in high-intensity drills designed to counter the evolving North Korean nuclear and missile threats. The training included maritime missile defense, aerial combat, anti-submarine warfare, cyber defense, and air defense drills. Counter-piracy drills and maritime attack-and-defense training were introduced during this iteration of the exercise. The exercise also strengthened trilateral cooperation through maritime commander meetings and the exchange of liaison officers.
On Thursday, the USS George Washington showcased its rapid and powerful force projection capabilities by demonstrating the emergency deployment and landing of F-35C and F/A-18 fighter jets. The display included formation flights and highlighted the aircraft carrier’s enhanced stealth capabilities by presenting its hangar filled with multiple F-35C aircraft, emphasizing its formidable presence.
Rear Admiral Gregory Newkirk, Commander of the U.S. Navy’s Carrier Strike Group 5, noted that the exercise involved more forces than before and successfully conducted more complex training across various domains.
Rear Admiral Huh Sung Jae, Commander of South Korea’s Navy Task Group 7, highlighted that the exercise reflects the commitment of South Korea, the U.S., and Japan to deter and respond to threats undermining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and the Indo-Pacific region, including North Korea’s recent ICBM launches.
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