Panamax 2026 Exercises Conclude in Panama with Maritime Drill to Protect Canal Trade

The multinational military exercises Panamax 2026 concluded in Panama with a maritime interdiction simulation designed to test the response capabilities of participating forces against potential threats to the free flow of trade through the Panama Canal. The exercise brought together about 1,700 military personnel from 21 countries and was organized by the U.S. Southern Command. The closing ceremony took place at the Amador cruise port and included U.S. Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth. During the drill, participants intercepted a small vessel allegedly carrying weapons. Air units disabled their engines, and then naval and air forces from Panama, the United States, and other nations boarded and simulated the capture of the occupants. The training aimed to improve interoperability and strengthen collective capacity for complex multinational operations to ensure the free flow of trade via the Panama Canal. Panamanian National Police Director Jaime Fernández stated that the Panamanian Public Force serves as the first line of response to any threat against the interoceanic waterway. He emphasized the importance of these exercises in preparing Panamanian institutions to act initially while coordinating support from other countries if a threat materializes. Hegseth also observed jungle training as part of Panamax 2026, highlighting the Panama Canal's strategic importance to Washington and the exercise's role in preparing its defense. Activities continued at Playa Bonita, Veracruz, with other officials present, including representatives from the U.S. Southern Command.