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U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Enhances Regional Security Through Joint Exercise Planning Course

03 October 2025

From U.S. Indo-Pacific Command

CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii — U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) successfully concluded the Joint Exercise Planning Course (JEPC) from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3, 2025, at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii. The comprehensive course, facilitated by USINDOPACOM's J7, Training and Exercises Directorate, bolstered interoperability and security cooperation with partner nations in the Indo-Pacific region and hosted military personnel from multiple countries.

The JEPC equipped participants with foundational knowledge and skills to plan, design, and execute complex joint exercises. The curriculum emphasized joint exercise design, scenario development, objective setting, evaluation methodologies, and after-action reviews. This ensured participants were well-versed in all aspects of joint exercise planning.

Andrew Merz, Chief of Staff, J7, USINDOPACOM, stated, "This Joint Exercise Planning Course directly supports USINDOPACOM's strategic objectives by strengthening alliances and enhancing regional security. By equipping our joint exercise planners and allied joint exercise planners with the skills to plan and execute complex exercises, we are collectively building a more resilient and capable security network."

Throughout the course, participants engaged in classroom instruction, practical exercises, and case studies. Applying learned principles in simulated planning scenarios refined skills in a collaborative environment. This hands-on approach provided attendees with practical experience alongside theoretical understanding.

By hosting the JEPC, USINDOPACOM reinforced its commitment to strengthening alliances and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. Collaborative training initiatives, such as the JEPC, promote stability and ensure that the U.S., its allies, and partners remain agile, adaptable, and ready to meet challenges.

In today's complex security environment, the ability to seamlessly integrate our forces with those of our partners is paramount. The JEPC designed to hone that ability, ensuring we can operate together effectively to deter aggression and respond to crises throughout the Indo-Pacific," said Merz.

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