571st MSAS Enhances Strategic Partnerships During Mission to Panama

  • Published
  • By Capt. Carlos Valdivia
  • 571st Mission Support Advisory Squadron
PANAMA CITY, PANAMA --  

PANAMA CITY, PANAMA – Ten Air Advisors from the 571st Mobility Support Advisory Squadron (MSAS) deployed to Panama from March 7–28, 2025 to conduct a multi-faceted training mission in support of Panama’s National Aeronaval Service (SENAN). The effort was part of an ongoing theater security cooperation initiative aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing regional stability.

 

Operating from Panama Pacifico and Tocumen Air Bases located on the outskirts of Panama City, the 571 MSAS team delivered instruction across six tailored courses, covering hazardous material (HAZMAT) transportation, flight safety, warehouse optimization, and aircraft maintenance. The mission directly advanced six U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) objectives, further reinforcing shared security and economic interests in the Western Hemisphere.

 

“This mission represented an incredible opportunity to sharpen SENAN’s readiness in key logistics and aviation disciplines while also reinforcing the trust and cooperation between our nations,” said Capt Carlos Valdivia, mission commander and team lead.

 

Advisors provided two HAZMAT transportation courses and developed a tailored cargo acceptance checklist to improve coordination, inspection, and movement of sensitive cargo — including contraband interdiction and explosive materials. The team’s work directly supported SENAN’s ability to combat illicit trafficking and streamline operations vital to protecting $270 billion in global maritime trade transiting annually through the Panama Canal.

 

In aviation safety, the team trained a nine-member flight safety section, improving their organizational structure and guiding development of a localized risk management reference. This effort bolstered preflight planning and safety protocols supporting over 75 pilots across SENAN’s aviation force.

 

Aircraft maintenance advisors also provided platform-specific instruction for two intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft. Their mentorship improved maintenance proficiency and supported enhanced air domain awareness — a USSOUTHCOM strategic priority.

 

“The advisors of MTT 25-10 demonstrated what expert, on-the-ground partnership looks like,” said Lt Col Mary L. Bordelon, 571st MSAS commander. “Their work directly enables our partners’ ability to respond to regional threats, while supporting U.S. strategic influence in a critical geopolitical corridor.”

 

The 571st MSAS remains committed to advancing partner nation capabilities across Latin America, fostering strong relationships through professional, relevant, and responsive advising.