Maldives is preparing to conduct joint military exercises with the United States Air Force
The United States, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives are scheduled to conduct a joint military exercise titled 'Atlas Angel' from August 5 to 9, aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response capabilities. These drills will focus on search and rescue operations and the delivery of medical assistance to strengthen international cooperation in mitigating the impact of natural and man-made disasters.
U.S. Air Force pilots are seen conversing in front of a KC-135 Stratotanker following an aerial refueling training exercise involving F-15 and F-16 fighter jets. | Getty | getty images
The U.S. Embassy in Colombo has announced that the air forces of Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and the United States will conduct joint training exercises aimed at strengthening disaster response capabilities. Named 'Atlas Angel,' the exercise will include personnel from the U.S. Montana National Guard and Pacific Air Forces, alongside the Sri Lanka Air Force and the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF).
According to the U.S. Embassy, the ongoing operations in Trincomalee and Colombo, Sri Lanka, will involve the transport of military personnel between the two cities using U.S. C-130 aircraft. To conclude the exercises, a specialized disaster management simulation will be conducted. This final phase is designed to assess operational readiness and establish protocols for responding to real-world emergency scenarios.
The military exercises, aimed at enhancing preparedness and response capabilities for both natural and man-made disasters, are scheduled to take place from August 5 to 9. More than 70 U.S. military personnel and two C-130 Hercules aircraft will participate in these drills alongside the armed forces of Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The 'Atlas Angel' exercise comprises six primary components. These include search and rescue operations in residential areas, medical emergency response, and the repair of damaged airfield infrastructure. The program is scheduled to conclude on August 9 with a large-scale disaster management simulation. These exercises are designed to train participants in various emergency scenarios, ensuring they are fully prepared to respond to real-world disasters.
Major General Pete Hronek, the Adjutant General of the Montana National Guard, stated that successful disaster management can only be achieved by providing relevant agencies, local authorities, and the general public with the necessary skills and information. He further noted that he hopes to gain valuable experience through this exercise by collaborating with regional military forces and participating in simulations based on real-world scenarios.
Following these exercises, U.S. Air Force surgeons will conduct an information-sharing session at the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University in Colombo. During this session, the latest medical protocols and best practices will be shared with Sri Lankan military and civilian healthcare professionals. U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, noted that disasters do not recognize borders and that their frequency and severity are increasing globally. She emphasized that international cooperation is essential to mitigate damage, save lives and property, and maintain regional stability.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has expressed its gratitude for Iran's offer to supply oil upon request. However, the country noted that it lacks its own tankers required to transport the fuel. Iran's Ambassador to Sri Lanka stated last Monday (the 23rd) that Tehran remains ready to provide the oil and necessary resources to help Sri Lanka overcome its current energy crisis. At the same time, reports indicate that the Maldives has also sought energy assistance from India, as regional supply chains continue to face disruptions due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
