PHNOM PENH, Cambodia - Members of the United States Navy aboard the USS Vandegrift will join the Royal Cambodian Navy to participate in the third Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Cambodia exercise in Sihanoukville, Oct. 22-26, 2012.

The exercise will focus on enhancing maritime security skills through activities such as maritime interdiction, diving and salvage operations, maneuvering, and disaster response.

In addition, CARAT Cambodia 2012 aims to increase cooperation, promote understanding, and build trust between the U.S. and Royal Cambodian navies through sports and social events. CARAT 2012 will also improve relationships with the civilian community through community service projects. The U.S. Navy's Seventh Fleet Band will give a free public concert in Kampot Town at the provincial roundabout near the stadium on Wednesday, October 24, at 7:00 p.m.

In 2010, Cambodia participated in the CARAT exercise for the first time. Other CARAT participants include Bangladesh, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore, and Timor Leste. Since 1995, CARAT exercises have taken place on an annual basis in the Southeast Asia region.