The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Oakland (LCS 24) participated in International Fleet Review (IFR) 2022 organized by the Bangladesh Navy in the waters off Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, Dec. 6-9.
Oakland participated in maritime and cultural exchanges as well as bilateral meetings organized by the Bangladesh Navy. IFR 2022 included participation by members of navies and coast guards of 28 nations.
“It was an honor for USS Oakland to represent the U.S. in IFR 2022 organized by Bangladesh Navy,” said Cmdr. Derek C. Jaskowiak. “This year, as Bangladesh and the U.S. celebrate 50 years of friendship, IFR provided a great opportunity to foster and strengthen the existing relationship between our navies.”
Oakland’s participation in IFR 2022 highlights the long-lasting relationship between the U.S and Bangladesh Armed Forces, strengthened by routine participation in bilateral and multilateral events and exercises. Bangladesh Navy is a regular participant in exercises that focus on shared regional security priorities like exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC), Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (SEACAT), and Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT).
IFR 2022, organized by the Bangladesh Navy, intends to promote good will, strengthen cooperation, and serve as an ideal platform for world’s navies to showcase their prowess, naval diplomacy, and cooperation in a global arena.