US sailors and marines from the Expeditionary Strike Group 3 and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade are set to take part in amphibious exercise Dawn Blitz 2017 off the coast of Southern California, October 20-30.
Dawn Blitz 2017 is a scenario-driven exercise designed to train the Navy and Marine Corps in operations expected of an amphibious task force. The exercise will test staffs in the planning and execution of amphibious operations in a series of live training events.
Units from U.S. 3rd Fleet and I Marine Expeditionary Force will utilize the latest technologies in the live exercises to accomplish Dawn Blitz 2017 training objectives. The exercise will involve an amphibious assault, mine operations, live-fire opportunities, and the establishment of expeditionary advanced bases.
Unique to this exercise is the integration of the F-35 and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System to conduct a sea-based strike.
Exercises like Dawn Blitz 2017 provide realistic, relevant training necessary for effective global crisis response expected of the Navy and Marine Corps.
When directed, 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade deploys and is employed as a Marine Air-Ground Task Force in support of Combatant Commander requirements for contingency response or major theater war.