South Korea and the United States will conduct a joint command and personnel computer-simulated exercise, named Freedom Shield, from March 13 to 23. The exercise aims to test and strengthen allied command and control capabilities through high-fidelity simulations that mirror real-world scenarios. This marks a notable step in ongoing efforts to enhance combined readiness between the two militaries.
Officials indicate that the 2023 iteration will run continuously, making it the longest uninterrupted computer-assisted training session to date. In addition to the digital drills, Warrior Shield field maneuvers are on the schedule, representing a scale-up reminiscent of the Foal Eagle exercises that halted in 2019. The aim of these maneuvers is to increase the realism and integration of joint operations across services and allied units.
A four-day crisis management exercise is also planned, according to Yonhap. The scenario-based component is designed to test decision-making processes, interagency coordination, and rapid response protocols under pressure, reflecting a broader focus on resilience and readiness within the alliance.
Earlier reports noted that the United States Air Force participated in a joint Teak Knife exercise with the Republic of Korea Army. The exercise included coordinating air support and ground operations to demonstrate interoperability between air and ground components in a high-tempo environment, with specific emphasis on integrating close air support assets such as ground-based strike capabilities.
Additionally, Times of Oman previously reported the start of the Oman-British joint military exercises Mountain Storm 2023 in Oman, underscoring a global pattern of allied nations conducting large-scale training to maintain readiness and flexibility in a dynamic security landscape.