JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii — The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) hosted an international helicopter exchange during Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026, welcoming more than 45 naval aviators and aircrew from nine participating nations.
The event brought together helicopter personnel from the United States, Republic of Korea, Italy, Peru, Chile, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and Mexico to compare operational procedures, discuss aviation challenges and strengthen professional relationships. The exchange focused on improving interoperability, communication and mutual understanding among partner navies.
Flight Deck Experience
Visiting crews toured the aircraft carrier’s hangar bay, flight deck and navigation spaces, observing launch and recovery operations as well as the coordination required to safely conduct embarked helicopter operations.
Cmdr. Andrew Poulin, Strike Operations Officer aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt, “We’re privileged to host the international helicopter exchange aboard Theodore Roosevelt. It’s a great opportunity to showcase naval aviation and work with our partners from different countries.”
Cmdr. Antonio Gonzáles, Peruvian Navy, “It’s been a great experience for helicopter pilots to exchange ideas, share flight experiences, learn about different cultures and get to know more people.”
Lt. j.g. Francisco Valencia, Mexican Navy, “We’re grateful for the opportunity to participate in exercises like this, which allow us to improve our tactical skills and build relationships with other navies.”
About RIMPAC
RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific) is the world's largest international maritime exercise. First held in 1971, it is organized by the U.S. Navy and brings together allied and partner nations for multinational training in naval, air, amphibious and joint operations. Conducted in and around the Hawaiian Islands, the exercise is designed to improve interoperability, strengthen maritime partnerships and support security across the Indo-Pacific region.
RIMPAC 2026 includes 30 participating nations, more than 30 surface ships, five submarines, over 200 aircraft and approximately 30,000 personnel. The exercise runs from June 24 to July 31, 2026, marking the 30th edition of the multinational event.
