International War Games Begin in Hawaii

Eight nations are conducting a huge joint military exercise off the coast of Hawaii, in the 20th edition of a program known as the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC). The program is taking place from June 26 through July 28 and participating nations include Australia, Canada, Chile, Peru, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States. More then 40 ships, 6 submarines, 160 aircraft, and nearly 19,000 military personnel have gathered in Hawaii for the event. There has been some controversy surrounding the military receiving permission to use sonar during the event, because sonar can cause strange behavior in whales. Military personnel are aware of this problem. They have put spotters on every ship who will search for whales and order sonar turned off if any are sighted.

RIMPAC 2006 - Official Web Site

Photos of RIMPAC 2004