U.S. Forces Lead Training Exercise with Panamanian Security Forces

Photo By Lt.Cmdr. Amy Forsythe | PANAMA CITY, Panama – Panamanian Security Forces use a smoke grenade to conceal their entry into a training facility as part of tactical exercise that included a mounted patrol, close quarters engagement and illicit drug interdiction as part of PANAMAX-Alpha Phase I, at the Cerro Tigre training range in Panama, Aug. 5, 2025. PANAMAX-Alpha 2025 showcased the operational unity, trust, and shared values that underpin the U.S.-Panama relationship. From medical outreach to rapid response simulations, each phase built upon decades of cooperation aimed at maintaining the Panama Canal as a neutral and resilient global trade access point. (Photo by U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Amy Forsythe, Naval Special Warfare Public Affairs)  

PANAMA CITY, PANAMA

08.05.2025

Story by Lt.Cmdr. Amy Forsythe 

Special Operations Command South

PANAMA CITY, Panama – Panamanian Security Forces participate in a culminating tactical training exercise that included a mounted patrol, close quarters engagement and illicit drug interdiction as part of PANAMAX-Alpha Phase II, at the Cerro Tigre training range in Panama, Aug. 5, 2025.

As the lead coordinating command, U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) directed joint efforts through Joint Task Force-Bravo (JTF-Bravo), Army South, and a range of U.S. and Panamanian forces. PANAMAX-Alpha 2025 advances SOUTHCOM’s strategic goals of building partner nation capacity and promoting regional stability through a realistic and scalable training framework.

“The Panamanian Security Force’s performance in terms of capability, qualifications, and ownership of the exercise reflects growing professionalism, strong institutional investment, and a clear assertion of national leadership” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Innis E. Bryant, Chief, Joint Exercises Branch for SOUTHCOM based in Doral, Florida.

Exercise PANAMAX-Alpha—the Panama based component of the larger PANAMAX series was first conducted in 2007. It was established as an annual bilateral exercise between the U.S. and Panama, distinct from the broader multinational PANAMAX training that was launched in 2003.

Tactical training was coordinated and provided through U.S. Special Operations Command SOUTH (SOCSOUTH) based in Doral, Florida. U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF) also provided assessments for the Panamanian National Border Service (SENAFRONT), the National Aeronaval Service, and the National Police. U.S. military members from a variety of special operations units provided direct mentorship, hands-on training, and strategic guidance to help improve response capabilities to emerging threats.

“By conducting combined training with Panamanian security forces, U.S. SOF personnel contribute to long-term regional defense cooperation and mutual readiness,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Daymian Hale, lead planner for SOCSOUTH.

PANAMAX-ALPHA serves as a cornerstone of SOUTHCOM’s integrated deterrence strategy. It’s designed to strengthen Panama’s ability to counter illicit trafficking and maritime threats while enhancing interoperability with regional security forces.

This exercise aligns with broader U.S. national defense objectives—building trust, enhancing readiness, and preserving freedom of navigation in the hemisphere. From medical outreach to rapid response simulations, each phase built upon decades of cooperation aimed at maintaining the Panama Canal as a neutral and resilient global trade access point.

• Date Taken: 08.05.2025
• Date Posted: 08.13.2025 16:33
• Story ID: 545385
• Location: PANAMA CITY, PA