The Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), the Sri Lankan Air Force, the US Pacific Air Force and the Montana National Guard have launched the "Atlas Angel" military exercise in Sri Lanka.

More than 70 US troops and two military aircraft are participating in the exercise until Friday. The exercise is conducted by the Montana National Guard in collaboration with Maldives and Sri Lanka.

"Disasters are increasing day by day around the world. With the assistance and experience of the United States, we can work to reduce the damage caused by disasters," US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said.

The training is aimed at disaster preparedness. A total of six trainings are scheduled to be completed during the exercise.

Sri Lanka Air Force Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa highlighted the exercise’s role in promoting engagement and interoperability for collective security.

MNDF had participated in military exercises in and out of the Maldives. However, training programs with the United States have increased in recent years.