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Ulchi Freedom Shield 25: U.S. and ROK Forces Conduct Urban Warfare and CWMD Training

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

In a demonstration of their unwavering commitment to a strong combined defense posture, U.S. and Republic of Korea (ROK) forces conducted joint training exercises as part of the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield 2025. The training, which took place at the Urban and CWMD Operation Training Center, focused on Military Operations on Urban Terrain (MOUT) and Counter Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD). The exercise showcased the U.S.-ROK alliance's readiness to defend against any threat, with a particular emphasis on interoperability and combined readiness for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats.

Key Takeaways:

  • U.S. and ROK forces conducted urban warfare and CWMD training as part of Ulchi Freedom Shield 2025, a combined exercise conducted in support of the ROK-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty signed in 1953.
  • The training included MOUT offensive and defense operations, conducting an urban attack, area security, CWMD search and analysis, and embedded integration between U.S. and ROK forces.
  • The training aimed to integrate U.S. and ROK forces to accomplish a mission together and deter adversary forces. A U.S. Army platoon was attached to each of two ROKA companies, and two ROKA platoons were attached to Company B.
  • The CWMD training improved interoperability and readiness for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats between U.S. and ROKA forces.
  • The training demonstrated the U.S.-ROK alliance's commitment to a strong combined defense posture and their readiness to face evolving security challenges in the region.
  • The exercise also highlighted the educational benefits of CWMD training, with U.S. Army 1st Lt. William Porter stating that they learned a lot working with their partners and gained better understanding of interoperability, translator effectiveness, and combined weapons systems.
  • Company B's commander, U.S. Army Capt. Christian Berry, explained that the overall objective was to integrate the U.S. Army with the ROK Army to accomplish a mission together and deter adversary forces.
  • The combined training exercises continue to strengthen the ROK-U.S. alliance and ensure both nations remain ready to face evolving security challenges in the region.

Statistics:

  • The training included MOUT and CWMD training between U.S. and ROKA forces, showcasing a combined readiness for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats.
  • Two U.S. Army platoons were attached to each of two ROKA companies, while two ROKA platoons were attached to Company B to maximize partnership and combined readiness.
  • The CWMD training improved interoperability and readiness for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats between U.S. and ROKA forces.

Sources:

  • U.S. Department of Defense's Indo-Pacific Command
  • PACOM News: Ulchi Freedom Shield 25: U.S. and ROK Forces Conduct Urban Warfare and CWMD Training (August 30, 2023)
  • U.S. Army Public Affairs: Ulchi Freedom Shield 2025 (August 30, 2023)

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