DHAKA, Aug 02 (V7N) – The United States and Bangladesh have successfully concluded the joint military exercise "Tiger Shark," an initiative aimed at strengthening bilateral defense cooperation and enhancing regional security under the broader Indo-Pacific framework.

The exercise, executed in close coordination between the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and the Bangladesh Armed Forces, featured a comprehensive range of integrated training activities. These included medical response, joint patrolling, marksmanship, close-quarters combat, swimming and diving, and various tactical simulations.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Tracey Jacobson emphasized the significance of the exercise, stating, “This joint military exercise reaffirms our commitment to a safer, stronger and more prosperous Indo-Pacific. It also symbolizes the strong U.S.-Bangladesh partnership.”

Beyond the tactical training, "Tiger Shark" also incorporated subject matter expert exchanges and joint planning sessions. These components are crucial for enhancing operational interoperability and building readiness to effectively face evolving regional challenges.

The U.S. Embassy underscored that the "Tiger Shark" exercise reflects the enduring commitment of both nations to peace, stability, and a rules-based order within the Indo-Pacific region. Such engagements, the Embassy noted, serve to strengthen mutual trust and capacity between the two armed forces, contributing to a more secure maritime and regional environment.

USINDOPACOM, which oversees American military activities across the Asia-Pacific, plays a critical role in collaborating with regional partners to uphold peace, deter aggression, and ensure open sea lanes in one of the world’s most strategically vital regions.

This iteration of "Tiger Shark," part of the "Flash Bengal" series of exercises, continues a partnership that has been ongoing since 2009. The exercise typically involves special forces from both countries, with focuses on skills such as patrol boat handling and small arms marksmanship, aiming to bolster the capabilities of Bangladesh's Special Warfare Diving and Salvage (SWADS) and the Para Commando Brigade in responding to crises. The use of U.S. equipment by both countries is also a notable aspect of these combined exercises.

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