The United States Army and the Timor-Leste Defense Force have commenced Exercise Dalan ba Dame 2024, a joint military initiative aimed at enhancing tactical interoperability and readiness. The opening ceremony took place in Baucau, Timor-Leste, with notable attendees including F-FDTL Lieutenant General Falur Rate Laek, U.S. Embassy Charge D’Affaires Weinstock, and USARPAC Deputy Commander Brigadier General Okamura.
This exercise involves over 250 participants from both nations engaging in training on squad and platoon-level tactics. The goal is to foster peace and security in the region through improved collaboration.
Charge D’Affaires Weinstock addressed the significance of this partnership: “As we embark on this joint exercise, let us recognize the broader context of our partnership, that is, a free and open Indo-Pacific, ensuring the prosperity and security of all nations.” He further emphasized strengthening cooperation: “By strengthening our cooperation and interoperability, we not only enhance our collective defense capabilities, but we also send a clear message about principles of freedom, openness, and respect for international law.”
The training will continue until the end of June. It focuses on essential soldiering skills such as small unit tactics, land navigation, tactical combat casualty care, and combat engineering. Participants include U.S. Army servicemembers alongside members from the Rhode Island Army National Guard and B Company of the Southern Battalion from the F-FDTL.