Panama and U.S. Forces Train in Colon Jungle Ahead of Panamax
COLON, August 2, 2026 – Panama security forces and units from the United States Army and Marine Corps carried out jungle training in San Lorenzo, Colon, as part of preparations before the multinational Panamax exercises.
Metro Libre reported that the training, known as Milla Verde, involved a forced one-hour march and was intended to strengthen operational capacity against threats such as transnational organized crime and risks to the Panama Canal.
Senan director Luis De Gracia said the exercises are designed to strengthen bilateral collaboration, share good practices and raise the preparation level of participating units before Panamax begins.
The training also included Senafront participation. Sub-lieutenant Rodolfo Saint Yong said the English-language training and exchange with U.S. forces helps Panamanian units learn and adapt operational maneuvers.
The story connects directly with the broader Panamax 2026 security context. While maritime units are drilling around strategic routes, security forces are also working on terrain-based readiness in Panama.
For Panama, the Canal security mission requires coordination across maritime, border, air and land-security institutions, making joint preparation politically and operationally significant.
Why it matters
The training reflects Panama effort to strengthen readiness around Canal security and transnational-crime threats through joint exercises with U.S. forces.
What happens next
The participating units are expected to carry lessons from the San Lorenzo training into the wider Panamax exercise period.
