The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) will conduct a multi-day military training operation across the country as part of ongoing preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
In a media release issued Tuesday, the ABDF announced that “Exercise Daybreak” will run from April 13 to April 17, involving both local and regional security partners.
The exercise is expected to feature participation from forces in St. Kitts and Nevis and Barbados, alongside the Canadian Armed Forces and the Regional Security System (RSS). Several local government agencies will also be engaged in the coordinated training effort.
According to the release, military activities will take place at various locations throughout Antigua and Barbuda during the exercise period. Members of the public can expect to see an increased military presence, including personnel conducting simulated real-world operations.
Officials emphasized that the exercise is part of routine preparedness activities and is not linked to any immediate threat.
“The ABDF assures the public that this is a planned training exercise, and there is no cause for alarm,” the statement said.
The Defence Force also called for public cooperation and understanding as the exercise unfolds, noting its importance in strengthening national and regional security readiness ahead of major international events.
This is exactly the kind of preparation we should expect ahead of hosting an event as important as CHOGM. Security readiness is critical, especially when regional and international leaders will be visiting Antigua and Barbuda. Glad to see cooperation with regional partners as well.
National security readiness is not something that should ever be rushed. These types of exercises help identify weaknesses before the actual event, which is exactly what responsible planning looks like.
Thanks for the update. I was kinda intimidated by their increase presence