Over 1500 troops from 15 countries arrive for Tradewinds Exercise

Over 1,500 troops from 15 countries have converged in Guyana for the highly anticipated Tradewinds 2023 Exercise. Guyana will witness a significant military presence over the next week as this remarkable gathering marks the beginning of a week-long event that aims to strengthen regional security and foster enhanced cooperation among participating nations.
Since its establishment in 1984, the Tradewinds Exercise, organized by the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), has symbolized unity and collaboration in the face of security challenges. Its annual occurrence demonstrates the unwavering commitment of nations to safeguarding shared interests and promoting stability within the Caribbean region.
Foreign troops began arriving in Guyana on Friday, creating a palpable sense of anticipation. Base Camp Ayanganna in Georgetown became the focal point as military personnel from various countries gathered for the official launch event, held on Saturday.
The event, featuring uniformed soldiers, military vehicles, and impressive displays of military prowess, set the stage for a week of intensive training and joint operations.
The Tradewinds 2023 Exercise has been meticulously designed to expand capabilities, develop standardized operating procedures, and bolster Guyana’s ability to defend its exclusive economic zones (EEZ).
Beyond military objectives, the exercise places a strong emphasis on promoting human rights, adhering to shared international norms, and increasing readiness to counter illegal fishing activities that threaten the region’s marine resources.
The nations participating in Tradewinds 2023 represent a diverse array of countries committed to regional security. They include Antigua, Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, Canada, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, St. Kitts, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent, Suriname, and Trinidad.
With such a robust multinational force, the exercise becomes a melting pot of different military cultures, providing an invaluable opportunity for troops to learn from one another and strengthen the bonds of cooperation.
As Guyana assumes the role of host, it showcases its dedication to regional stability, and highlights its growing prominence on the global stage. The presence of over 1,500 troops demonstrates the collective determination of the participating countries to address shared security challenges and ensure a safe and secure environment for the Caribbean region.
Beyond military maneuvers, Tradewinds 2023 serves as a platform for diplomatic engagement and strengthening of partnerships. As troops engage in joint exercises, workshops, and simulations over the coming days, they will not only enhance their operational capabilities, but foster greater understanding and camaraderie among the participating nations.
At the launching ceremony to kickstart the week of events on Saturday, US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, highlighted the importance of the exercise while emphasizing some activities that would be carried out during the two-week exercise.
“Tradewinds returns to the welcoming country of Guyana for this highly important combined and joint exercise, where, for the next two weeks, we will focus on the critical task of building relationships, promoting regional interoperability, and reinforcing security and stability in the Caribbean region,” she said
Meanwhile, National Security Advisor Captain Gerry Gouveia emphasized the importance of the exercise as he called on the forces to work together to maintain Guyana as a zone of peace.
“We gather in an area in this region that has always been known as the zone of peace, and a lot of times, many places in the world have been in turmoil…We must all endeavor to keep it that way,” he urged. (G-9)