WASHINGTON, D.C. —The first official U.S.-Panama special operations forces (SOF) talks, held February 18, 2025, marked a significant step in the ongoing partnership between the two nations. These discussions, paired with intensive joint training exercises, underscored the decades-long collaboration that has been central to bolstering regional security and tackling transnational threats.
According to Navy Rear Adm. Mark A. Schafer, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command South (Socsouth), the enduring partnership between U.S. and Panamanian forces is a vital element of stability in a challenging global environment.
“This enduring partnership is crucial for regional stability and reflects our shared commitment to a secure future,” Schafer said, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts.
Strengthening Regional Security
Participants in the talks included Frank Abrego, Panama’s public security minister, and leaders from Panama’s SOF community. Schafer expressed gratitude for their dedication and lauded their role in ensuring regional safety.
“The work you do is not just critical to Panama but serves as a cornerstone for regional security. Your contributions embody the highest standards of professionalism, courage and adaptability,” Schafer stated.
These discussions culminated in a memorandum of agreement, designed to formalize shared security objectives and create a framework for increased cooperation through long-term training programs with Socsouth. Schafer called this step the beginning of deeper collaboration and the gateway to innovative approaches for addressing future security challenges.
Ongoing Training to Strengthen Preparedness
Concurrent with the talks, U.S. and Panamanian forces engaged in joint combined exchange training (JCET). This rigorous program covered advanced skills in marksmanship, communications, combat tactics, medical care, and demolition, providing practical benefits to both participants.
“The continued presence of U.S. SOF personnel working alongside Panamanian security forces embodies the SOF’s forward deployment model and dedication to building partner capacity,” said Army Maj. Trevor Wild, Socsouth public affairs officer.
Since 2008, Socsouth has trained members of Panama’s National Border Service (SENAFRONT) in counter-narcotics operations and other security initiatives aimed at countering illicit trafficking. Socsouth has also continuously contributed to annual exercises like Panamax-Alpha, which focus on securing the Panama Canal and enhancing military interoperability.
A Partnership Rooted in Shared Values
The joint involvement in prominent initiatives like the Fuerzas Comando competition reinforces the strength of the U.S.-Panama alliance. The 2024 iteration of this Southcom-sponsored event, hosted by Panama, brought together 450 personnel from various nations to foster cooperation among military and law enforcement agencies.
Wild noted that Panama’s leadership during Fuerzas Comando “further strengthens this partnership” and builds essential relationships critical to the region’s security.
Looking Ahead
With approximately 6,000 U.S. special operations personnel deployed across 80 countries, the U.S.-Panama partnership exemplifies how collaborative military relationships support peace through strength. Schafer credited the enduring alliance with creating a bedrock of security in the Americas.
“These first talks are just the beginning, as they set the stage for deeper collaboration and open the door to innovative solutions,” Schafer said.
The memorandum of agreement and ongoing initiatives underscore a shared commitment to mutual security and stability. The U.S.-Panama effort provides a model for how military-to-military cooperation can achieve lasting results, ensuring regional resilience against a spectrum of threats.
Through continuous collaboration, officials from both nations hope to strengthen their partnership, addressing emerging challenges while upholding the shared values that have defined their relationship for decades.
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