 The multi-lateral amphibious exercise Don Blitz 15 kicked off August 31st. Expeditionary Strait Group 3 and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade are partnering with coalition forces from Japan, New Zealand and Mexico to participate in this scenario-driven exercise. Hull off the coast of Southern California, Don Blitz incorporates a variety of training scenarios including amphibious landings, live fire opportunities and marine prepositioning force training and sea basing operations. In total, 14 ships from the U.S., Japan and Mexico are utilizing the latest technologies to both accomplish Don Blitz and strengthen capabilities across the Pacific. Building U.S. and coalition sea basing and amphibious landing capabilities are vital to effective crisis response, regional security and deterrence.