Image Credits: US Navy The United States and partner nations sank two decommissioned U.S. Navy warships during live-fire sinking exercises (SINKEX) held as part of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 exercise, using ships, submarines, aircraft and land-based missile systems in coordinated attacks. The guided missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG-53) was sunk on July 12, while the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA-5) was sunk on July 17. Both vessels were sent to the seabed in waters about 15,000 feet deep, more than 50 nautical miles north of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, the U.S. Navy said. The exercises involved forces from Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Spain and the United States. According to the U.S. Navy, the drills were designed to improve tactics, targeting and live-fire coordination against surface ships, helping partner nations train together in complex maritime operations. “Watching our Sailors work side-by-side with partners from around the world, executing complex maritime events together, is the strongest reminder of why these relationships matter,” U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Jeff Jablon, commander of RIMPAC 2026 Combined Task Force, said. “SINKEXs are a prime example of the strength and readiness our partnerships create.” Republic of Korea Navy Rear Adm. Inho Kim, Combined Force Maritime Component Commander for RIMPAC 2026, said the exercises showed the coalition’s growing capabilities. “The successful execution of multiple SINKEXs highlights the unbreakable bond and growing capability of our coalition,” Kim said. “Together, we are demonstrating a shared commitment to regional stability by developing tactics and skills in maritime operations.” A U.S. Defense Department video released on Wednesday showed several weapons and military platforms used during the exercises. These included a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet carrying an AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM), High Mobilit