A U.S. Air Force C-130J Hercules is being unloaded at an airstrip in Panama. - A U.S. Air Force C-130J Hercules assigned to the 39th Airlift Squadron, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, is unloaded at Aeropuerto International de Panama Pacifico, Panama, Aug. 10, 2025. The cargo was delivered to support U.S. Southern Command’s goal to expand its ongoing coordination, collaboration, and security efforts where U.S. military personnel and Panamanian security institutions can bolster collective capabilities and skills, as well as facilitate a combined joint learning environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Julia Lebens)

A Panamanian Security Force personnel hoists a military working dog onto a vessel - PANAMA CITY, Panama - Panamanian Security Forces hoists a military working dog (MWD) onto a vessel during a Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) tactical training event as part of the PANAMAX-ALPHA 2025 off the coast of Panama City, Panama, Aug. 7, 2025. MWDs play a critical role in enhancing both safety and effectiveness for the boarding team. Their primary uses include explosive and narcotics detection, suspect apprehension and control and force protection. Their heightened senses allow them to detect movement, concealed threats, or hostile intent before human operators can, providing an early warning system during tense maritime boardings. Through combined operations, participating forces refine tactics, build trust, and strengthen regional security cooperation to safeguard the Panama Canal, one of the most strategic maritime routes in the world. PANAMAX-Alpha serves as a cornerstone of U.S. Southern Command’s integrated deterrence strategy. The exercise also aligns with broader U.S. national defense objectives—building trust, enhancing readiness, and preserving freedom of navigation in the hemisphere. (Photo by U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Amy Forsythe, Naval Special Warfare Public Affairs)

Belize Coast Guard members help a member onto a vessel during helocast practice at exercise AGILE BEAR 25, Belize City, Belize, Aug. 6, 2025. As U.S. Southern Command’s rapid response element in Central America, Joint Task Force-Bravo provides a unique and essential capability in enabling our partner nations to proactively confront threats to their security through exercises like AGILE BEAR, preparing our teams to respond to crises in the joint operational area. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Dylan Rossitto) - Belize Coast Guard members help a member onto a vessel during helocast practice at exercise AGILE BEAR 25, Belize City, Belize, Aug. 6, 2025. As U.S. Southern Command’s rapid response element in Central America, Joint Task Force-Bravo provides a unique and essential capability in enabling our partner nations to proactively confront threats to their security through exercises like AGILE BEAR, preparing our teams to respond to crises in the joint operational area. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Dylan Rossitto)