US, Chinese troops join forces for first time in Brazil’s exercises

The Brazilian Navy has announced that for the first time, American and Chinese military personnel are participating in a joint exercise organised by the Brazilian Armed Forces.

Operation Formosa, a major military drill in Latin America since 1988, is being held near Formosa, Brazil, and is not connected to Taiwan, which bore the same name in 1895, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Approximately 3,000 troops began the training, with activities set to continue until September 17, as reported by Brazil’s defence ministry. Last year, the US was represented by troops from the US Southern Command, while China observed the exercise. This year is notable as both the US and China have sent active military participants: 33 from the Chinese Navy and 54 from the US Navy, a Brazilian Armed Forces spokesperson told the Post.

Additionally, officers from Argentina, France, Italy, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Republic of Congo, and South Africa are also involved. The Brazilian Navy stated, “It is customary to invite friendly nations to these exercises,” emphasising that such invitations aim to enhance integration between the Brazilian Navy and allied forces. The US Department of Defense directed inquiries to US Southcom, which was unavailable for immediate comment.

Brazil’s defence ministry clarified that the exercises simulate amphibious operations, including warship assaults on a hostile coast and landing on a designated beach. Live ammunition will be used to promote interoperability and integration among the navy, army, and air force, while also facilitating experience-sharing with allied forces. Chinese and American military forces have not conducted joint exercises since 2016, when the US invited China to the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (Rimpac). At that time, China sent five warships and about 1,200 troops. 

However, subsequent Rimpac editions excluded China due to its military activities in the South China Sea, according to the Pentagon. China’s participation in Operation Formosa represents a significant development in military cooperation between Beijing and Brasilia. Past collaborations include Chinese troops training at Brazil’s Jungle Warfare Training Centre and Peace Operations Joint Training Centre, as well as recent visits by Chinese and Brazilian military officials. In July, Brazilian Army General Tomas Miguel Ribeiro Paiva visited Beijing to discuss strengthening cooperation in various areas, including science, technology, and defence.