Ready to take the fight to the enemy: A U.S. Marine with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, Littoral Combat Force-24, participates in a close-quarters combat training with Marine Special Operations Team in Colón, Panama, Aug. 4, 2026. U.S. military forces are deployed to the #SOUTHCOM area of responsibility in support of Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere, @DeptofWar-directed operations, and the President’s priorities to disrupt illicit drug trafficking, deter malign actors and protect the homeland through continuous presence. #JTFWHEM @The24MEU @SecWar @USMC @USNavy @MARFORSOUTH @NAVSOUS4THFLT

The US Southern Command announced readiness to engage the enemy through combat training in Panama. US forces are deployed in the region to disrupt drug trafficking and deter malign actors.