US Military Presence in South America: Beyond the Panama Canal and Soto Cano Air Base

The relationship between the United States and South American countries has a long and complex history, often characterized by military cooperation. Although the Panama Canal, a vital waterway, is not within the South American region, historically it was a significant part of a US military base. Today, however, the landscape of US military presence in South America looks quite different.

Current Military Presence

While the US no longer maintains a military base at the Panama Canal, it still engages in strategic and operational activities throughout the continent. One such base is the Soto Cano Air Base, which is located in Honduras and falls under North America. However, the US military presence in South America remains crucial for maintaining regional stability and conducting joint operations.

Military Cooperation and Exercises

The US Military often engages in joint military exercises with South American nations as part of its broader military cooperation efforts. These exercises are designed to enhance interoperability, strengthen diplomatic ties, and improve the capabilities of partner nations' militaries. Some of the notable exercises include:

Southern Vanguard and Southern Seas Exercises

Some of the significant and regular exercises include Southern Vanguard and Southern Seas, which are conducted in countries such as Brazil and Colombia.

Southern Vanguard 24 in Brazil

During Southern Vanguard 24, which took place in Brazil in 2024, the US and Brazilian militaries conducted a series of training exercises aimed at improving their joint capabilities. These exercises included maritime security operations, counterdrug missions, and humanitarian assistance. The aim was to build a strong partnership and ensure mutual support in regional security.

Southern Vanguard 23 in Colombia

The previous iteration of Southern Vanguard, Southern Vanguard 23, was held in Colombia in 2023. This exercise resembled a real scenario, where the US and Colombian forces practiced maritime security and counterinsurgency tactics. The participation of specialized units from both countries highlighted the importance of such exercises in maintaining regional stability and enhancing cross-cultural military understanding.

Southern Seas 2024 on the Coast of Colombia

While Southern Vanguard focuses on land operations, Southern Seas exercises primarily focus on naval and maritime capabilities. The Southern Seas 2024 took place on the coast of Colombia in 2024, aimed at enhancing naval interoperability between the US and Colombian navies. These exercises included joint patrols, anti-piracy drills, and coordination of search and rescue operations in the waters off Colombia.

Conclusion

Despite the absence of significant military bases in South America, the United States maintains a strong and active presence through strategic military cooperation and joint exercises. These exercises not only enhance the capabilities of partner nations' militaries but also foster stronger diplomatic and military relationships, contributing to regional stability and security.

Keywords

US military in South America military exercises in South America Soto Cano Air Base

References

[1] Department of Defense. (2024). US Military Exercises in South America. Retrieved from

[2] NATO. (2024). Southern Vanguard and Southern Seas Exercises. Retrieved from