RIMPAC 2026 features expanded 30‑nation participation and unmanned submarine trials

The 30th Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) will take place from June 24 to July 31 around the Hawaiian Islands, bringing together forces from 30 nations—up from 29 in the previous edition. More than 30 surface ships, five submarines, 15 land‑force contingents, over 206 aircraft and roughly 30,000 personnel are expected to train together, underscoring the exercise’s role as the world’s largest multinational maritime drill.

U.S. Pacific Fleet submarines will use the event to demonstrate new capabilities, testing advanced unmanned undersea vehicles that extend intelligence‑surveillance‑reconnaissance reach and integrating long‑range UGM‑84 Harpoon anti‑ship missile strikes. These trials aim to enhance under‑sea stealth, lethality and interoperability with allied partners, reinforcing a combined advantage in contested maritime domains.

Logistical support for the massive gathering is coordinated by NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Pearl Harbor, which manages fuel, transport, contracts and material services to sustain participating forces. Organisers stress that RIMPAC’s cooperative training environment strengthens interoperability, builds enduring relationships, and contributes to a free and open Indo‑Pacific.