Australia, France, and the United States operate together in South China Sea [Image 3 of 4]

The image depicts a trilateral military operation involving the United States Navy (US Navy), the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), and the French Navy in the South China Sea on April 9, 2024. The event took place as part of a rotational deployment for the US Navy's Destroyer Squadron 7 (DESRON 7) in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

The US Navy's Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Mobile LCS 26 is featured in the image. LCS 26 is a fast, agile, and shallow-draft warship designed for operations in shallow waters close to shore. The ship is commanded by Cmdr. David Gardner.

Two allied partners, the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and the French Navy, are also participating in this operation. The RAN is represented by HMAS Warramunga FFG152, a Perth-class guided-missile frigate. The French Navy is represented by FS Vendémiaire F 734, a Floréal-class frigate.

The purpose of this trilateral operation is to enhance interoperability between the three navies. Interoperability refers to the ability of military forces from different countries to work together effectively and efficiently. By conducting joint exercises and operations, the navies can improve their ability to communicate, coordinate, and collaborate.

Additionally, this trilateral operation serves as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The South China Sea is a strategically important waterway that is rich in natural resources and is a vital shipping lane for global trade. Maintaining a strong military presence in the region is essential for ensuring peace, stability, and freedom of navigation.

The US Navy's rotational deployments to the Indo-Pacific region are an essential part of its commitment to its allies and partners in the region. These deployments demonstrate the US Navy's continued engagement and investment in the region, which is crucial for maintaining a balance of power and deterring potential threats.

In summary, the image shows a trilateral military operation in the South China Sea involving the US Navy, RAN, and French Navy. The purpose of this operation is to enhance interoperability between the three navies and serve as a ready-response force to maintain peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the region. The US Navy's rotational deployments to the Indo-Pacific region are an essential part of its commitment to its allies and partners in the region.