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British, U.S. Forces Plan now for Disaster Relief, Bilateral Ops

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090619-11
Release Date: 6/19/2009 5:04:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Christopher Hall Navy Public Affairs Support Element East Public Affairs

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (NNS) -- British forces are observing the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) exercises being held on Camp LeJeune
June 15-20.

British Soldiers have established annual training in various exercises with the United States in the past. This year, they are attending JLOTS with the goal of integrating future operations.

"We sent over a small number of us to observe the JLOTS exercise and to see how we can move it forward in the future," said British Capt. Terry Wilcox, regimental operations captain of 17 Port and Maritime Regiment, Southampton, United Kingdom.

JLOTS is a critical military capability that allows equipment and sustainment supplies to reach specific areas without the benefit of a fixed port facility. The exercise, involving Sailors, Soldiers and Airmen increases interoperability and improves military readiness by alleviating situational sustainment issues.

"Britain and the U.S. stand shoulder to shoulder in many operations," said Wilcox. "We need to maintain links of interoperability by exercising together to achieve the same effect."

JLOTS has introduced many scenarios that illustrate why interservice forces need to train together. One main scenario is a natural disaster, which is a worldwide threat. The importance of a timely response to such disasters could be crucial for survival of many. In 2008, there were roughly 150,000 deaths worldwide due to natural disasters.

Coalition forces can improve response times and lessen the burden of logistical coordination by allowing more assets to be made readily available.

Wilcox and his Soldiers are also observing JLOTS to assess equipment interoperability for future operations.

"We are trying to bring our equipment together to see how well our landing crafts interface with U.S. ships, shipping and the piers they have been constructing here," said Wilcox.

For more news from Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, visit www.navy.mil/local/nablc.