MINEX 2JA is part of an annual series of exercises between the U.S. Navy and JMSDF designed to increase proficiency in mine countermeasure operations between the two forces. During the 15-day exercise, participants worked together to clear waterways through a simulated minefield using unit-level mine warfare tactics to include mine hunting, detection, and neutralization.

“It is always an honor and a privilege to work with our host nation partners and continue to build on our powerful relationships in the Mine Countermeasures community,” said Capt. Peter W. Haynes, commodore, Mine Countermeasures Group SEVEN. “I am excited for another opportunity to perform in a bilateral environment with the JMSDF and continue the strengthening of our interoperability capabilities.”

Together, JMSDF Mine Warfare Force and U.S. Navy MCMGRU 7 commanders directed mine hunting, mine sweeping and mine neutralization tasks for the participating units. This training allows all units to practice communicating and operating in a joint environment, while maximizing their collective mine countermeasures capability.

U.S. Navy and Marine Corps units participating in MINEX 2JA include avenger-class mine countermeasure ship USS Warrior (MCM 10), personnel from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 5, Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron Fifteen detachment, Littoral Explosive Ordnance Neutralization members and staff assigned to MCMGRU 7. JMSDF participants include two frigates, two ocean minesweepers, two minesweeper tenders, six coastal minesweepers, Kawasaki P-1 and P-3C aircraft, two mine countermeasures helicopters and multiple embarked Explosive Ordnance Disposal units.

MCMGRU 7 directs mine countermeasure assets in the clearance of sea mines to ensure free flow of commerce by sea and freedom of movement of U.S., Allies and partner nation ships and auxiliaries, in peacetime and in conflict.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, which routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.