Overview
- The multinational training, which began Aug. 3 and runs through Aug. 13, combines command-post planning with live maritime operations and lists participation by 18 to 19 partner nations in reporting differences.
- The United States is co-leading the four force components while Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Peru respectively co-lead special operations, maritime, air and ground elements to share planning and operational duties.
- A six-ship Pacific Task Force is operating in the Eastern Pacific and includes the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Robert Ward plus patrol ships from Mexico, Ecuador, Colombia and two Panamanian vessels.
- Exercise leaders say scenarios focus on interoperability, joint communications, coordinated maneuvers and responses to transnational and cyber-related threats that could disrupt canal operations.
- PANAMAX returned to live, in‑Panama training for the first time in 14 years to deepen Southcom partnerships, build partner capacity and help ensure the free flow of commerce through the strategically vital Panama Canal.