PHILIPPINE SEA -- Ships assigned to the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), with attached 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, partnered with Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) amphibious transport dock ship JS Osumi (LST 4001) to conduct a passing exercise (PASSEX), Aug. 26.

During a PASSEX, multiple ships sail in formation to practice communications and maneuvering procedures. Participating in this PASSEX with the Osumi was amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20), dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) and Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86). The exercise allowed the ships to improve each crews' knowledge and strengthen a wide variety of seamanship skills.

Rear Adm. Brad Cooper, commander Amphibious Force, U.S. 7th Fleet, said this PASSEX served as another building block in the continued positive relationship between the Wasp ESG and JMSDF.

"We proved earlier this year the success of operating side-by-side with the Kaij Jieitai [Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force] and continue that success with the Osumi,” said Cooper referencing Wasp ESG combined navigational maneuvers with amphibious transport dock JS Shimokita (LST 4002) in April.

“Today, we continue to strengthen our relationship and work together as one team with the goal of enhancing our combined amphibious capabilities,” Cooper said.

For the Sailors aboard participating ships, it was also their chance to improve their skills with their Japanese counterparts sailing alongside.

“Being in this part of the world it’s imperative to train with our allies in order to be as efficient as possible and become better overall. We are setting the standard and everyone is seeing what we do out here and how we do it right,” said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Austin Reid, from Springfield, Mo, who supported the PASSEX aboard the Ashland.

"Communication is key when operating in close quarters. It was a pleasure maneuvering and navigating within a few hundred yards of JMSDF Osumi,” said L.t. j. g. Davis Chandlert, USS Green Bay’s officer of the deck during the PASSEX.

The Wasp ARG is currently operating in the region to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency.