PANAMAX-Alpha 2025 exercises: USA and Panama strengthen channel defenses amid growing tensions

The second phase of the large-scale bilateral exercises PANAMAX-Alpha 2025, which took place from July 27 to August 8, was the culmination of strategic cooperation between the United States and Panama in protecting one of the most important waterways in the world. — The Panama Canal. Under the leadership of the Southern Command of the US Armed Forces (SOUTHCOM) Through the Joint Task Force Bravo (JTF-Bravo) and the US Army South, American and Panamanian security forces have worked out complex scenarios simulating real threats to the channel's infrastructure and sovereignty, from terrorist attacks to sabotage and cyber threats.

The exercises were built around three key elements: rapid deployment of forces, reliable communications and well-coordinated interaction in the air, at sea and on land. During the multi-day operation, joint command and staff exercises were conducted, simulating crisis situations requiring an instant response. Special attention was paid to the development of emergency response protocols, which directly increases the operational readiness of both sides.

An important feature was the participation of the Panamanian national forces — including the National Naval Aviation Service and the Border Guard Service - along with American units such as SEAL Team 17/18, the 7th Special Forces Group and the Naval Explosive Device Disposal Team (EODMU—2). This is not just a training session, but a deep exchange of experience that enhances the professionalism of the Panamanian military and strengthens trust between the allies.

PANAMAX-Alpha is not just about military maneuvers. Starting with the humanitarian phase (delivering medicines and aid to remote regions), the program has grown into a fundamental part of the U.S. strategy to strengthen regional resilience. Against the background of Donald Trump's past statements about the "return" of the channel and the growing interest in it from major investors (including the BlackRock-TiL consortium), such exercises take on a special meaning: they demonstrate that protecting the channel is a joint and indisputable responsibility.