US Marine force completes rotation

The US Marine Rotational Force Darwin (MRF-D) 2020 has completed its ninth rotation in Australia. The MRF-D departed the Northern Territory after successfully undertaking a range of exercises, which strengthened cooperation and interoperability with the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The US Marines arrived in a series of tranches and completed a mandatory 14-day quarantine, prior to starting their training; and, were tested for COVID-19 on entry to Australia and a second time prior to exiting quarantine. The rotation achieved significant joint training objectives and outcomes. The first key activity, Exercise Loobye, saw US Air Force B-1 and B-2 bombers integrate with the Australian Army and the MRF-D in a highly advanced training activity, allowing both ADF and US forces the opportunity to practice their skills. The second key activity, Exercise Koolendong, focused on a complex scenario, which progressed to high-end live-fire training, designed to build interoperability in support of the ADF and US Marines’ ability to respond to a range of crises in the region. The modified MRF-D operated between June and October 2020 reached an approximate size of 1,100 personnel. Planning is underway for the next year’s MRF-D, which will mark its 10-year anniversary. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]