IWO TO, Japan —
U.S. Airmen assigned to the 60th Air Mobility Wing at Travis Air Force Base, California, joined forces with the U.S. Marines from 3d Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division during exercise Typhoon Crossbow 25.1, Nov. 19, 2024.
Typhoon Crossbow is a joint training exercise designed to enhance interoperability and readiness across military services in response to dynamic global challenges.
Held in the Pacific, the exercise showcased the integration of air and ground capabilities during simulated high-intensity scenarios. Airmen and Marines worked side-by-side, utilizing their diverse levels of expertise to execute coordinated missions, demonstrating the importance of joint planning, communication and operational alignment to achieve shared objectives.
Airmen and Marines loaded a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle onto a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III for transport to Iwo To in order to execute a HIMARS Rapid Infiltration training.
“This HIRAIN training demonstrates 3d Battalion, 12th Marines ability to rehearse rapidly deploying long-range fire throughout the Indo-Pacific,” said U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Jonathan Gares, a platoon commander with 3d Battalion, 12th Marines.
Travis AFB Airmen provided the strategic airlift of Marines and their equipment to Iwo To from Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan.
“The Air Force provided us with logistical support to properly transport our Marines and equipment during exercise Typhoon Crossbow,” said Staff Sgt. Joshua Zeiger, a platoon sergeant with 3d Battalion, 12th Marines. “This exercise helped us integrate our capabilities.”
The execution of joint-service exercises like Typhoon Crossbow allow service members to maintain readiness and adaptability in an ever-changing environment. By fostering strong relationships amongst branches, the Air Force and the Marine Corps ensure their ability to respond rapidly and effectively to emerging threats.
“Integration with our sister services is essential to mission success,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Keegan Reynolds, 21st Airlift Squadron pilot. “While each branch brings specialized skills to the table, together we are one unified force.”
