Dhaka:Bangladesh and the United States have initiated a five-day joint air force exercise in Dhaka. The exercise, named "Cope South 2026," is being conducted at Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) Base Bir Uttam AK Khandker under the oversight of the Armed Forces Division and the overall management of the Bangladesh Air Force.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the inauguration of the exercise was marked by a welcome address from the base's commander, Air Vice Marshal Haider Abdullah. The event was also attended by US embassy's Deputy Chief of Mission Trishita Maula, who joined as the special guest.
The US Pacific Air Forces are sponsoring the event, which brings together pilots, aircraft maintenance specialists, and logistics personnel from both air forces for joint training and operational exchanges. The focus of the five-day exercise includes C-130J transport aircraft operations and maintenance, cargo handling, aviation safety, emergency response, airfield security, and medical support.
The practical training aims to improve operational efficiency, technical expertise, and coordination in aviation-related missions. Cope South 2026 is designed to enhance the capabilities of both air forces in responding effectively to regional security challenges and humanitarian crises through better coordination.
The exercise will particularly bolster the ability of the air forces to transport emergency supplies, support disaster relief operations, and provide critical logistical assistance during emergencies. In total, 120 BAF personnel and 18 members of the US Pacific Air Forces are participating in the exercise, addressing various aspects of aircraft operations and maintenance, aviation safety, risk management, and more.