The first phase of these maneuvers took place last June, when the Freedom Edge 24-2 exercises are being conducted in accordance with the security cooperation memorandum signed by the defense ministers of Japan, the United States, and South Korea. The Japanese Ministry of Defense said: “By signing the Memorandum of Security Cooperation, the Defense Ministers of Japan, the United States, and South Korea have committed to contributing to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, the Indo-Pacific region, and regions beyond its borders.”
Participating in the maneuvers are the Japanese destroyer Haguro, Orion B3 patrol planes, F-15 fighters, Mitsubishi F-2 and Boeing E767, and from the South Korean side: two destroyers built by Su-ro. “Son Ryong”, the “Orion B-3” patrol plane, and “F-15” fighters.
On the American side, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier “George Washington“, the guided missile destroyers “Higner”, “McCampbell” and “Dewey”, the anti-submarine patrol “Boeing P-8 Poseidon”, and “F-15” and “F” fighters are participating. -18” and Boeing KC-135 refueling transport aircraft.
The ministry said that the training will integrate fifth-generation fighter aircraft into high-level defense infrastructure in several regions, and fifth-generation fighters will also be included in comprehensive exercises on missile defense, anti-aircraft and anti-submarine defense, as well as in anti-piracy maneuvers and exercises to repel cyber attacks.
The first exercise, “Edge of Freedom,” was conducted in the East China Sea, while cooperation was reportedly tested in 7 areas, including repelling a missile attack at sea, as well as countering cyberattacks. The US aircraft carrier “Theodore Roosevelt” participated in the maneuvers, where training took place on take-off and landing on the decks of MH60 helicopters and FA18 fighters. In total, 7 warships from 3 countries participated in the exercises, in addition to fighter and patrol aircraft.
The first maneuver, unlike the previous tripartite maneuvers that were conducted once to carry out specific tasks, was the first of its kind because it was complex in nature and because it would become of a regular nature and its activities would take place continuously.
The maneuvers are called “Freedom’s Edge,” which is a combination of words from the two largest military exercises conducted by the United States with South Korea, “Freedom Shield,” and with Japan, “Ken’s Edge.” Moreover, if Washington, Seoul and Tokyo previously conducted one-time joint exercises on search and rescue at sea, responding to missile launches, escorting strategic bombers and other military maneuvers at sea and in the air, “Edge of Freedom” should become regular exercises conducted simultaneously, And in various fields.
Source: Novosti
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**Interview with Military Analyst Dr. Emily Chen on Freedom Edge 24-2 Exercises**
*Interviewer:* Today, we’re joined by Dr. Emily Chen, a military analyst specializing in East Asian security affairs. Dr. Chen, thank you for being here.
*Dr. Chen:* Thanks for having me.
*Interviewer:* The Freedom Edge 24-2 exercises recently took place involving Japan, the United States, and South Korea. Can you explain the significance of these exercises?
*Dr. Chen:* Absolutely. These exercises are part of a broader initiative to enhance trilateral security cooperation among Japan, the U.S., and South Korea. The agreement signed by the defense ministers aims to address regional threats and bolster defense readiness, particularly concerning North Korean activities.
*Interviewer:* What types of forces participated in these maneuvers?
*Dr. Chen:* A diverse array of military assets was involved. Japan contributed ships like the destroyer Haguro and various aircraft, including F-15 fighters and Boeing E767s. South Korea sent two of its own destroyers and the Orion B-3 patrol plane. The U.S. brought significant naval power, including the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George Washington and guided missile destroyers. This showcases a strong combined force capable of addressing various threats.
*Interviewer:* How do these exercises contribute to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region?
*Dr. Chen:* The exercises serve multiple purposes: they enhance interoperability among the forces of the three nations, send a clear message of deterrence to potential aggressors, and build trust and communication channels within the allied forces. This collective defense approach is crucial, especially in a volatile region where tensions can escalate quickly.
*Interviewer:* What might be the next steps following these exercises?
*Dr. Chen:* Following Freedom Edge 24-2, we can expect the continued refinement of joint operational strategies and potentially more frequent and extensive training exercises. Diplomatic efforts will also likely take on renewed importance, as the allies work to manage relations with North Korea while maintaining readiness for any contingencies.
*Interviewer:* Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your insights on this important topic.
*Dr. Chen:* My pleasure! Thank you for having me.
