RIMPAC, the World’s Largest Maritime Exercise, is Happening Now in Honolulu

You may have noticed the military vessels pulling into Pearl Harbor over the past couple of days. Don’t worry, they come in peace.

July 1, 2016

Jaclyn Saito,

Video: Courtesy of RIMPAC

Don’t be alarmed if you see the fleets of ships in Pearl Harbor; they’re here for RIMPAC. Watch the video above for more information on the event and a glimpse into the military training that participants complete while they’re here.

What is RIMPAC?

Every other year, the military conference, RIMPAC, or the Rim of the Pacific, is held between international military personnel. This exercise aims to foster peaceful relationships between the different nations to prevent future conflict.

Running from June 30 to Aug. 4, the conference is held around the entire Pacific Rim, including the coast of Southern California. Hosted by the U.S. Pacific Fleet, Hawaiʻi is the headquarters of the event, welcoming maritime crew from all over the world. A total of 49 ships, six submarines and about 200 aircraft from 26 nations are participating in the event. Training is to be held at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Marine Corps Base Hawai‘i, the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauaʻi and other locations across Hawaiʻi. Participants will engage in various military exercises, preparing them to protect the safety and security of naval officers on the world’s oceans.

Despite the elevated activity in the waters, organizers are taking measures to minimize their impact on marine life. The crew are trained beforehand on the protective procedures they are to perform if they see or come into contact with marine animals.

Ships and submarines sail into formation during a 2012 Rimpac exercise.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF RIMPAC

How might RIMPAC affect you?

With a total of 25,000 participants coming to Hawai‘i, expect an increase of traffic, noise and crowds. Also some areas in Hawaiʻi may experience noise from aircrafts in the early evening.

If you have a remote-controlled garage door, you might notice temporary complications. This is due to electromagnetic activity generated by the vessels participating in the exercise. If your remote isn’t working like it normally does, try taking it out and pointing it directly at the garage door. If this still doesn’t work, you may need to open and close your door manually. Check with your garage door company to better ensure you won’t face any complications.

The Hawai‘i state Department of Business and Economic Development and Tourism Research and Economic Analysis Division projects that the event will bring in more than $52.5 million to Hawai‘i, based on the number of people in attendance, the time they spend here and their estimated personal spending.