Tradewinds 2021 Overview
Tradewinds is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored combined joint exercise conducted with partner nations to enhance the collective ability of defense forces and constabularies to counter transnational criminal organizations and conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, while developing strong relationships and reinforcing human rights awareness. This exercise dates back to the mid-1980s.
Representatives from the United States and 12 partner nations are participating in the 36th iteration of Tradewinds. The strong relationships forged during Tradewinds 2021 through the exchange of knowledge and expertise are key to maintaining regional security and prosperity throughout the Caribbean and Caribbean Basin.
Note: Guyana was scheduled to host Tradewinds in 2020; however, the exercise was cancelled due to COVID-19 and the country offered to host in 2021.
Participants
About 1,500 U.S. military, partner nation security, and civilian personnel participating in the exercise.
During Tradewinds 2021, U.S. forces along with other U.S. government agencies, will conduct subject matter expert exchanges with all participating nations, to include the nations of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), and regional agencies to include the Regional Security System (RSS), the Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).
Nations Involved
Guyana (host nation), the Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Dominican Republic, France, Jamaica, the Netherlands, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Kingdom.
U.S. Forces Involved
U.S. participation includes U.S. Southern Command, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserves, U.S. Army National Guard, and elements of U.S. Special Operations Command South.