The Naval component of Timor Leste Defence Force (FDTL) will conduct its first joint naval military exercise with the US Navy scheduled in October 2009.

During the exercise the countries will practice humanitarian assistance activities, field exercises, jungle, urban and infantry training, beach landings and engineering and medical projects.

The joint exercises aim to enhance the skills of East Timor armed forces and to maintain interoperability with the US Navy.

US military captain Brannan Simi said the US Marines and sailors would conduct a limited training ashore in cooperation with the East Timor force and the international stabilisation force.

Members of the US Marine Corps 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Australian troops will also participate in the exercise.

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