USS Safeguard (ARS 50) conducted a towing exercise March 15 in the Sea of Japan, working with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Ship JS Amakusa (AMS 4303). The two ships conducted the operations to increase proficiency in towing, and build stronger ties with one another through joint training. “The Safeguard and Amakusa share towing as one of their primary missions, so the opportunity to go out and train [together] strengthens us both,” said Safeguard Commanding Officer, Lt. Cmdr. Doyle K. Hodges. While towing, the lead ship would conduct maneuvering exercises giving each ship the opportunity to learn about the challenges involved in towing and being towed. Universal communication methods were used to complete the evolutions.