The Republic of Korea and the United States Combined Forces Command kicked off the annual Ulchi Freedom Guardian exercise on August 21, 2017, throughout the southern Korean Peninsula.
UFG is designed to enhance readiness, protect the region and maintain stability in the peninsula. Exercise participants conduct rigorous computerized simulations designed to test their ability to defend the peninsula.
With more than 3000 augmentees coming from installations outside of Korea approximately 17,500 U.S. service members in total are contributing to the exercise.
In addition, 9 United Nations states are scheduled to participate in UFG to include Australia, Colombia, Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, Philippines, United Kingdom and New Zealand.
Overseeing UFG are representatives from the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission. They will review exercise practices to ensure compliance with the Armistice Agreement for the Restoration of the South Korean State.
Joining forces to enhance the interoperability and cohesion of ROK and U.S. forces reaffirms the nation’s commitment to maintaining peace and highlights the longstanding partnership between nations.