TABUK, Saudi Arabia -- The Royal Saudi Land Forces (RSLF) commenced bi-lateral theater amphibious combat rehearsal (TACR) training alongside U.S. Marines and Sailors from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) in Tabuk, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, June 7.
In preparation for the training, U.S. naval forces arrived via surface and air amphibious landings.
“We look forward to training alongside our Saudi partners,” said Col. Eric D. Cloutier, commanding officer, 24th MEU. “Bilateral exercises provide our forces the opportunity to increase readiness through shared tactics, techniques, and procedures and strengthen the bond between our two nations.”
TACR training integrates Navy and Marine Corps assets to practice and rehearse a range of critical logistics, aviation and ground combat-related capabilities, both afloat and ashore, highlighting the expeditionary and quick-response capabilities of the MEU.
As an inherently flexible maneuver force, capable of supporting routine and contingency operations, the presence of the ARG/MEU demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s commitment to regional partners and maritime security.
The 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The expanse is comprised of 20 countries and includes three chokepoints, critical to the free flow of global commerce.