U.S., Japan, Republic of Korea naval forces conduct VBSS training during Freedom Edge

U.S. 7TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Sept. 15, 2025) – Sailors of the Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) team from Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) approach the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Hyuga-class helicopter destroyer JS Hyuga (DDH-181) on a rigid-hull inflatable boat alongside Republic of Korea (ROK) forces during a simulated VBSS exercise with the JMSDF and ROK Navy in support of Freedom Edge 25, Sept. 15. Trilateral exercises and operations like Freedom Edge demonstrate our shared commitment to collectively achieve and maintain peace in the Asia-Pacific. Curtis Wilbur is forward deployed and currently assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Mark Bergado)