IWAKUNI, Japan. -- U.S. Marines with Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 12 conducted a training exercise loading AGM-84D Harpoon Missiles on F/A-18Cs and F/A-18Ds, and practiced attacking maritime targets. The AGM-84D Harpoon is an all-weather, over-the-horizon capable weapons system that provides long range anti-ship capability.

These sorties allow the squadrons to practice and demonstrate proficiency in the loading and simulated employment of different types of munitions. The training and operations conducted are directly tied to lethality and readiness, which are essential to projecting credible deterrence in this increasingly complex regional security environment. The training consisted of four F-18s sourced from two Fighter Attack Squadrons. Their mission was practicing the employment of Harpoon missiles against simulated maritime targets. No weapons were released during this training.

In keeping with Force Design 2030 and the USMC Commandant’s Planning Guidance, MAG-12 focused this training exercise on naval missions and anti-ship long range fires to enhance the Marine Corps’ ability to effect sea control and denial in the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. 1st Marine Aircraft Wing continues to refine our procedures and processes so that our forces are combat ready and capable of assurance and deterrence in the region, in accordance with the National Security Strategy.