The Bangladesh Army and the United States Army Pacific Command (USARPAC) today (19 July) inaugurated the 13-day joint military exercise Tiger Lightning 2026 at the Para Commando Brigade in Sylhet’s Jalalabad Cantonment.
The exercise, organised by the Bangladesh Army’s Para Commando Brigade, will continue until 31 July, according to a press release.
US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen and Bangladesh Army Chief of General Staff Lieutenant General Md Mainur Rahman attended the opening ceremony.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Christensen said military-to-military engagement remains a cornerstone of the growing strategic partnership between Bangladesh and the United States.
He described the exercise as a symbol of the two countries’ longstanding friendship, mutual respect and shared commitment to a free, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
Lieutenant General Mainur Rahman said Tiger Lightning is one of the key platforms for bilateral military cooperation between the two countries.
“The exercise will strengthen operational capabilities, deepen mutual understanding and further reinforce the long-term strategic partnership between the Bangladesh and US armed forces,” he said.
According to the press release, Bangladesh and the United States cooperate on regional and global security, counterterrorism, disaster management and humanitarian assistance.
The joint exercise aims to enhance interoperability, strengthen operational capabilities and improve preparedness to address emerging security challenges.
A total of 184 personnel are participating in the exercise, including 91 members of the US Army Pacific and the Oregon National Guard, and 93 personnel from the Bangladesh Army’s Para Commando Brigade and other formations.
The opening ceremony was also attended by the Deputy Commanding General for Strategy and Plans of the US Army Pacific, the General Officer Commanding of the 17th Infantry Division and Area Commander of Sylhet Area, the Commandant of the School of Infantry and Tactics, senior military officials, diplomats, participating personnel and members of the media.
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