POTD: U.S. and Japan Snipers Team Up During Operation Rising Thunder
Photo Of The Day: Soldiers from Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 1-2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team trained alongside Japan Ground Self-Defense Force snipers during Operation Rising Thunder. Working jointly from observation posts, the American and Japanese marksmen supported live-fire exercises by providing precision fire, observing impacts, and assisting with adjustments. Above, you can see a Howa rifle in use.
The training emphasized the broader role of sniper teams, which extends beyond engaging targets to include coordination with infantry units and maintaining situational awareness across the battlefield.
Combined training events such as this allow both forces to understand each other’s procedures, strengthen interoperability, and build the confidence required for effective partnered operations. According to the U.S. Army, these exchanges contribute to a more capable alliance and support stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Below are some more images from the day.
All images by Sgt. Michael Majors.
Ex-Arctic Ranger. Competitive practical shooter and hunter with a European focus. Always ready to increase my collection of modern semi-automatics, optics, thermals and suppressors. TCCC Certified. Occasionaly seen in a 6x6 Bug Out Vehicle, always with a big smile.
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I recall hearing what happens to ROK and JSDF personnel that lose even one piece of spent brass. Those brass catchers save more than brass, they save azz!