The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

The bilateral Exercise Sumo Tiger, conducted by the United States Marine Corps and the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) flying squadrons, concluded on Wednesday ending a successful week of combined training at the Kurmitola Air Base in Dhaka.

During the exercises, American and Bangladeshi forces conducted flight operations with US F/A-18 fighter aircraft, and Bangladeshi F-7s and MiG-29s, a US Embassy press statement says in Dhaka on Wednesday.

Additionally, aviation support personnel from both nations, from air traffic controllers to maintenance specialists, shared their expertise and insights while jointly supporting flight operations during the exercise.

"We have a lot in common. We are both very proud of our history and we have seen the professionalism of the BAF throughout this exercises," said Lt Col Flay R Goodwin, Commanding Officer of US Marine Fighter-Attack Squadron 314.

Through cooperation and exchange, the exercises reinforced the United States and Bangladeshi armed forces' ability to operate together, as well as the professional relationship between U.S. and Bangladesh personnel.

The Exercise Sumo Tiger demonstrates the United States government's firm commitment to regional security by promoting military-to-military relationship throughout Asia and the Pacific region, the statement adds.