BRACOLPER 2024 is a tri-national naval exercise conducted by Brazil, Colombia, and Peru in the Amazon, aimed at enhancing military preparedness against organized crime. The exercise involved over 2,000 service members and marked its 50th anniversary, focusing on strengthening naval cooperation and addressing illegal activities in the region.
The tri-national exercise known as BRACOLPER 2024 took place in the Amazon border regions of Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, aimed at enhancing the preparedness of military units in combating organized crime and ensuring regional security. Conducted in three phases from July 17 to September 9, the exercise involved significant naval deployments and the participation of over 2,000 service members across key locations: Iquitos (Peru), Leticia (Colombia), and Manaus (Brazil). This year’s exercise notably commemorates the 50th anniversary of BRACOLPER. Defense expert Andrei Serbin Pont emphasized the importance of this joint operation, stating, “This type of training serves to reinforce the navies’ capabilities and increase river cooperation, where these nations share borders, to exchange knowledge and strengthen their capabilities in the fight against transnational threats.” The operational scope included a range of activities, such as communications, cargo transfer, and tactical patrolling during the second phase, followed by amphibious landing and jungle maneuvers in the third phase. Serbin Pont highlighted the pressing issues faced in the Amazon, where organized crime, including drug trafficking and illegal mining, has surged in recent years due to the region’s vast natural resources and limited state presence. This cooperation is essential, given that Brazil, Colombia, and Peru collectively oversee 80% of the Amazon territory. Furthermore, the International Crisis Group noted the presence of various criminal organizations exploiting this vulnerable region. Reportedly, Brazilian groups collaborate with Colombian guerrilla factions and Peruvian traffickers, complicating the law enforcement landscape. In a proactive response, Peruvian President Dina Boluarte introduced plans for an Amazon and National Surveillance System, which aims to protect the region’s biodiversity while fostering sustainable management of its resources. During this year’s exercise, the Peruvian Navy deployed vehicles such as the BAP Ucayali and the BAP Castilla. The Brazilian Navy contributed with river patrol vessels and the Hospital Ship Carlos Chagas, while the Colombian Navy utilized the ARC Leticia and ARC Arauca for this comprehensive operation. Serbin Pont reiterated, “Combined training in the field is key to practical learning in any military activity,” underscoring the significance of cooperation among nations as a commitment to peace and territorial integrity against the backdrop of organized crime challenges. The Colombian Navy affirmed its dedication to ongoing international collaborative efforts like BRACOLPER, reinforcing their naval capabilities. The origins of BRACOLPER date back to 1974, showcasing an enduring commitment to interoperability and collaborative security in the Amazon. This annual exercise is vital for enhancing compatibility, techniques, and strategies among the partner nations. In conclusion, BRACOLPER 2024 serves not only as a platform for joint military training but also as a pivotal initiative in addressing the multifaceted threats posed by organized crime in the Amazon, thereby safeguarding regional security and fostering cooperation among Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.
The article discusses the BRACOLPER 2024 exercise, a joint naval operation conducted by Brazil, Colombia, and Peru to enhance military readiness against organized crime and promote regional security within the Amazon. The exercise reflects a long-standing collaboration between the three nations, emphasizing the importance of interoperability and strategic partnership in addressing transnational threats. The Amazon region has seen a rise in illegal activities, prompting the need for coordinated efforts among neighboring countries to protect natural resources and combat organized crime effectively.
In summary, BRACOLPER 2024 represents a significant cooperative effort among Brazil, Colombia, and Peru to enhance military capabilities and address the rising threats of organized crime in the Amazon. The exercise not only commemorates a 50-year collaboration among the countries but also highlights the importance of joint operations in maintaining peace and security in the region amidst growing environmental and criminal challenges.
Original Source: dialogo-americas.com
