The arabian sea: The US Central Command announced that the destroyer USS Frank Petersen Jr. conducted live-fire exercises in the Arabian Sea as part of efforts to enhance readiness and defensive capabilities for maritime operations.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, in a statement released Friday, the US Central Command explained that the ship is equipped with multiple weapon systems, including the Mk.41 Vertical Launching System (VLS), a 5-inch Mk.45 gun, and an Mk.38 chain gun. The statement emphasized that the exercise is part of ongoing efforts to maintain operational readiness and ensure maritime security in the region.

Earlier, the US Central Command stated that US Marines from the Central Command’s Counterterrorism Fleet Security Team provided protection during Exercise Indigo Defender 26 on February 2, 2026.

According to US Central Command, Indigo Defender 26 is a significant bilateral naval exercise between the Royal Saudi Naval Forces and US Naval Forces Central Command, aimed at enhancing interoperability and strengthening our ability to maintain regional maritime security and stability.