Overview
- A joint statement reported strengthened combined readiness and progress toward a conditions‑based OPCON transfer to Seoul.
- The number of field drills fell to 22 from 51 last year, with 17 completed by Thursday and the rest wrapping up next week, according to the JCS.
- About 18,000 troops trained in live, virtual and constructive events, including the Warrior Shield maneuvers linking command‑post and field operations.
- North Korea launched roughly 10 ballistic missiles toward the East Sea during the exercise and issued sharp warnings condemning the training.
- UNC member states joined portions of the exercise, and the NNSC observed to assess armistice compliance and the defensive character.