Royal Air Force personnel are representing UK Defence in the annual Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. Bringing specialist expertise to the world’s largest international maritime exercise; this exercise strengthens partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.
Running from 24 June to 31 July 2026, RIMPAC involves 31 nations, around 25,000 personnel, 40 surface ships, five submarines and more than 140 aircraft. Hosted by the U.S. Navy in and around the Hawaiian Islands, this exercise is designed to improve interoperability between allies and partners while enhancing collective readiness.
While the exercise has a maritime focus, a key element of the RAF’s involvement this year is Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).
RAF specialists are contributing to discussions, planning and practical training designed to improve multinational responses to humanitarian crises across one of the world’s most disaster-prone regions. The exercise provides an opportunity to exchange lessons, refine procedures and ensure that future responses can be delivered quickly, safely and collectively.
Participation at RIMPAC also reinforces the United Kingdom’s enduring commitment to security, stability and cooperation across the Indo-Pacific. As the region continues to grow in strategic importance, exercising alongside allies and partners strengthens relationships that are essential to responding to future crises; whether military, humanitarian or environmental.
For the RAF, success at RIMPAC is measured not simply by what is taught, but by what is learned.
