Chief of Defence Forces Gen Songwit Noonpackdee on Thursday led Thai navy cadets to visit the USS Somerset in Chon Buri province to learn the capacities of the United States Navy's landing platform (LPD) ship, deployed for Cobra Gold 2024.
Gen Songwit's delegation was received by Rear Adm Thumrong Supunpong, Commander of Frigate Squadron One; Rear Adm Amornthep Boonyong, director of Sattahip Naval Base; Col Kurtis A Leffler, defence attache of the United States Embassy to Thailand and chief of Joint US Military Advisory Group (JUSMAGTHAI); and Capt Michel C Brandt, commanding officer of the USS Somerset, at Chuk Samet pier in Sattahip district.
The visit aimed to observe the capabilities of the USS Somerset, used in various US military operations, including troop deployment, amphibious operations, expeditionary operations, defence support to civil authorities, maritime search and rescue, foreign humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and transportation of personnel and equipment.
The USS Somerset provides command and control, with US Marine troops and equipment onboard. The US Armed Forces also provided an opportunity for the first-year navy cadets, and visitors from the Royal Thai Armed Forces to participate in the ship tour and gain their knowledge in various aspects such as navigation, communication, modern military technology, onboard operations, different command structures, particularly in relation to the crew and amphibious troops, as well as personnel's well-being (food, accommodation, and recreation).
The visiting group also learned the customs and traditions of the US Navy, fostering exchange of ideas and experiences between the two forces.
(Photo: Wassana Nanuam)