More than 200 soldiers from the Canadian Armed Forces are training alongside United States Marines and other allies during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2013, an amphibious exercise at Camp Pendleton, California, which began June 11th and runs until the 28th of the month.
“We are committed to being a reliable partner in the defence of North America,” said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence. “This requires carrying out training exercises and remaining interoperable with the United States. With this exercise, we are working to fulfil that commitment.”
The exercise’s primary focus is on offensive manoeuvres, but also includes training in defensive manoeuvres. It culminates in an amphibious assault using “Assault Amphibious Vehicles” and tanks. During this last phase, Canadian soldiers from the Quebec-based 5 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group, under the command of 2nd Battalion 5th Marine Regiment, train with ground forces from New Zealand, and with air support from the Japanese Self-Defense Forces.
“Exercise Dawn Blitz is a unique opportunity for Canadian soldiers to develop their expertise in amphibious operations and practice working in partnership with allied forces to further develop interoperability,” said Lieutenant-General Peter Devlin, Commander of the Canadian Army. “This improves our understanding of amphibious operations and provides us with valuable operational experience with coalition partners.”
Approximately 5000 soldiers from naval and ground forces from Canada, Japan, New Zealand and the U.S. are participating in the planning and execution of this major amphibious training exercise.
[mappress] Press Release, June 21, 2013; Image: US Navy