These are the “Atlantic Dagger” and “PASSEX” maneuvers, which seek to strengthen Argentina's military readiness.
For its part, the “PASSEX” operation will take place in the Argentine Exclusive Economic Zone, where U.S. Navy ships will operate in conjunction with local units, in a naval cooperation scheme aimed at improving interoperability between the two forces.
The Government of Javier Milei authorized by decree the entry of United States troops to carry out combined military exercises in the country.
The measure was published in the Official Gazette and enables the participation of personnel and media of the United States Armed Forces in two historic operations scheduled for the coming weeks.
The decision includes the development of the “Atlantic Dagger” exercise, the most important military exercise in recent history, which will take place from this Tuesday to June 12, 2026. In addition, it contemplates the execution of the naval operation “PASSEX”, scheduled between April 26 and 30
.
The “Atlantic Dagger” maneuvers will be deployed in different military installations in the country, including the Puerto Belgrano Naval Base, the Córdoba Military Garrison and the 7th Air Brigade of the Argentine Air Force, located in Moreno, province of Buenos
Aires.These exercises will bring together U.S. special operations forces, including Green Berets and Marines, along with Argentine commandos.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Armed Forces indicated that these activities will increase military readiness, strengthen national defense and promote the exchange of knowledge and operational practices between the
two countries.It should be remembered that the Executive Branch had sent a bill to Congress in 2025 to authorize the entry of foreign troops and the departure of Argentine forces within the framework of joint exercises, but the initiative was not addressed.
Faced with this situation, the Government moved forward with authorization by decree to guarantee the carrying out of these maneuvers, essential to boost the level and capacity of the Argentine Armed Forces.
The joint participation in these exercises represents a significant step in military cooperation between Argentina and the United States, in a context in which the Government seeks to strengthen military operational capabilities and consolidate strategic ties in the field of defense.
