ORANJESTAD, Aruba (AAN) — The annual Barracuda Warrior military exercise Caribbean has officially begun, taking place from January 26 to February 6 in Curaçao.
The large-scale military exercise brings together more than 180 service members from across the Caribbean, with the objective of strengthening cooperation, coordination, and operational readiness among regional defense units that are normally stationed on different islands.
Training activities are being conducted at several locations, including Wacao, the Defense Training Grounds, Koraal Tabak, the former hospital in Otrobanda, and the coastal area of Playa Kanoa. The exercise includes maritime and land operations, urban warfare scenarios, artillery exercises, and simulations of both planned and unplanned attacks. Training sessions take place during both daytime and nighttime hours.
Participating units include the Aruba Marine Squadron, a detachment of the Marine Corps of St. Maarten, the Curaçao Boat Platoon, army units, and additional military personnel from Curaçao. Increased participation by Curaçao-based forces reflects ongoing efforts to further professionalize Caribbean military capabilities.
The Barracuda Warrior military exercise Caribbean remains a key annual event aimed at enhancing preparedness, interoperability, and regional security, contributing to stability and safety throughout the Caribbean region.
