TEL AVIV — Israel, Turkey and the United States have completed a search and rescue exercise in the Mediterranean Sea.

The joint exercise, which included aircraft, took place in late August off the Israeli coast, Middle East Newsline reported. Officials said the maneuvers had been designed to enhance interoperability as well as reduced response time to a regional naval crisis.

"The drill largely contributed to the ability of the air and naval vessels of the three forces to respond faster and more efficiently to maritime emergencies in the future as well as provide any required humanitarian aid," the Israeli military said.

"As part of the exercise, the forces held joint preparation discussions, preliminary training on land, joint tours and more."

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