The aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt hosted more than 45 military personnel from eight countries for an international helicopter exchange as part of Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2026 (RIMPAC 26).
The event took place at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii on June 27, 2026, bringing together helicopter pilots from the United States, South Korea, Italy, Peru, Chile, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and Mexico.
Sharing knowledge across borders
During the exchange, pilots compared procedures, discussed aviation challenges, and worked to strengthen relationships across the participating nations. Visiting personnel toured the carrier’s hangar bay, flight deck, and navigation spaces, all of which play a role in flight operations aboard the Roosevelt.
US Navy Commander Andrew Poulin, the ship’s strike operations officer, said the event was an opportunity to showcase naval aviation and build connections with international partners.
“We’re privileged to host the international helicopter exchange aboard the Theodore Roosevelt,” Poulin said. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase naval aviation and work with our partners from different countries.”
Sailors assigned to the Roosevelt demonstrated flight deck procedures, launch and recovery operations, and the coordination required to operate aircraft safely.
Power for Peace 🔱
— U.S. Pacific Fleet (@USPacificFleet) June 22, 2026
USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) sails through the Pacific Ocean while conducting exercises to enhance strike group capability.
Our visible demonstration of warfighting readiness through operational competence is the high standard we hold ourselves to. pic.twitter.com/B88XO04n1R
Value beyond training
Peruvian Navy Commander Antonio Gonzales said the exchange provided value beyond tactical training.
“It’s been a great experience for helicopter pilots to exchange ideas, share flight experiences, learn about different cultures and get to know more people,” Gonzáles said.
Mexican Navy Lieutenant Junior Grade Francisco Valencia echoed the sentiment.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to participate in exercises like this, which allow us to improve our tactical skills and build relationships with other navies,” Valencia said.
Part of RIMPAC 26
The helicopter exchange is one component of RIMPAC 26, the world’s largest international maritime exercise. This year’s iteration, the 30th since the series began in 1971, is taking place in and around the Hawaiian Islands from June 24 through July 31, 2026.
The exercise involves 30 nations, more than 30 surface ships, five submarines, 15 national land forces, over 206 aircraft, and approximately 30,000 personnel. RIMPAC is designed to enhance readiness, strengthen partnerships, and support regional security across the Indo-Pacific.