The Bangladesh Army and the United States Army Pacific Command have kicked off the much-anticipated 'Tiger Lightning 2025', a six-day joint military exercise aimed at bolstering operational readiness, counterterrorism strategies, and humanitarian response capabilities.
The opening ceremony was held on Friday at the Para Commando Brigade headquarters in Jalalabad Cantonment, Sylhet. The event was attended by senior military officials from both countries, with Major General Ascot A. Winter, Deputy Commanding General of the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), presiding as the chief guest.
Jointly organized by the Bangladesh Army’s elite Para Commando Brigade and the Nevada National Guard, the exercise underscores the growing defense and security cooperation between Dhaka and Washington.
According to a press release from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Tiger Lightning 2025 focuses on joint training in counter-terrorism operations, disaster management, and humanitarian assistance. The exercise, scheduled to run until July 30, features 100 commandos from Bangladesh and 66 personnel from the US.
“This collaboration reaffirms the commitment of both nations to ensuring regional stability, addressing transnational threats, and enhancing disaster preparedness through collective training and knowledge exchange,” said the ISPR in its official statement.
Senior officials from the Bangladesh Army, including the Directors of Army Air Defence and Military Training, as well as the Commander of the Para Commando Brigade, were also present at the launch event.
Military analysts view the exercise as a strategic step toward deepening defense ties and enhancing interoperability between the two forces, especially in high-risk and rapid-response scenarios.
The Tiger Lightning series, held regularly under the USARPAC framework, has become a key platform for fostering trust, exchanging tactical expertise, and preparing both forces for joint missions in crisis situations.
The exercise is expected to not only elevate the professional capabilities of participating troops but also reinforce the strong and evolving partnership between Bangladesh and the United States in defense and security arenas.
BOB Post
