The U.S. and Panama conducted a joint military exercise, PANAMAX-Alpha Phase I, from July 13–18 to strengthen defense of the Panama Canal amid concerns over China’s growing regional influence.

The U.S. Southern Command’s Joint Task Force-Bravo deployed helicopters for operations focused on infrastructure protection and multinational cooperation.

The exercise follows warnings from U.S. officials about China’s military and economic presence in the Western Hemisphere, including its past involvement in Panama’s ports, Newsweek has reported.

U.S. forces continue to expand regional efforts, including medical and security missions.

Written by B.C. Begley