U.S. Marines Arrive in Darwin for 12th Rotation

The arrival of the United States Marines for the 12th iteration of Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) marks a significant event for the Australia-U.S. Alliance.

The annual rotation of a combat credible Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) to Darwin, Australia, is designed to enhance interoperability and cooperation between the two nations' armed forces, providing valuable training opportunities with Allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. Components of the MAGTF include a Command Element, Logistics Combat Element, Ground Combat Element, and Aviation Combat Element.

This year’s rotation is led by Colonel Brendan Sullivan, commanding officer of MRF-D 23. The Command Element is made up of Marines and Sailors from 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, from Camp Pendleton, California, and is reinforced (REIN) by a detachment from Marine Air Control Group – 38, from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California.

“We are honored to extend the legacy of the Australia-U.S. Alliance, working side-by-side with our Australian Defence Force Allies to provide a ready force for contingency and crisis response in the region,” said Col. Sullivan, commanding officer of MRF-D 23. “Our team is postured and ready to advance shared goals, demonstrate the strength and endurance of our Alliance, and contribute to regional security and partnerships.”

The Ground Combat Element, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment (REIN), and Logistics Combat Element, Combat Logistics Battalion 1 (REIN), are also based in Camp Pendleton, California. Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 (REIN), the Air Combat Element, out of Marine Corps Base Hawaii, completed the structure of the MAGTF with the arrival of 10 MV-22B Ospreys.