IPOH, Malaysia – U.S. and Malaysian soldiers stood together for the opening ceremony of Keris Strike 2015 at the Parade Square in the 2nd Royal Ranger Camp, here, on Sept. 9, 2015.

Keris Strike is an annual, bilateral exercise sponsored by U.S. Army Pacific and hosted by the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF). KrS 15 marks the 19th iteration of the exercise, which contributes to enhancing U.S. and Malaysian defense readiness and tactical interoperability while strengthening bilateral relationships.

“This exercise is the manifestation of our close military ties and cooperation,” said Malaysian Army Lt. Gen. Zulkiple Hj. Kassim, Malaysian Army’s field commander.

He continued to say the KrS 15 is designed to enhance the interoperability of both armies in handling conflicts and he hopes that both parties will be able to achieve this desired objective.

The United States Army Pacific commanding general echoed Kassim’s comments with his speech.

“This exercise is an important one, it a part of a relationship that continues to great gains and depths, said Gen. Vincent Brooks, commander, United States Army Pacific Command.

Key training events for this year’s exercise will be a partnered command post exercise (CPX), jungle field training exercise (JFTX), Unmanned Arial Surveillance class, Medical First Responder training, counter-improvised explosive device(C-IED) training and a engineer civil action project.

“Our armies working together close together makes for common benefits for both countries,” said Kassim.
During the exercise the Soldiers will be training at two different area in Malaysia.

Combined staff from the U.S. and MAF that will participate in academic instruction and moderated staff planning in preparation for the CPX will be training here.

The FTX training will be a little further away and their training will consist of academics, practical applications, and assessment for five days, followed by a 3 day training exercise in the jungle environment to accomplish joint training objectives.

“I find that whenever we can have Soldiers standing side by side it’s always a good thing,” said Brooks. “I have no doubt that this will be a rewarding experience for all soldiers involved.”