2006 Press Releases
High-Ranking U.S. Defense Official Reviews OBPAT Operations
October 19, 2006
United States Assistant Secretary of Defense Thomas O’Connell visited The Bahamas October 16-18 on an information-gathering tour of Operation Bahamas Turks & Caicos (OPBAT). Mr. O’Connell oversees Department of Defense counter-drug efforts worldwide.
Mr. O’Connell traveled to The Bahamas at the request of United States Ambassador John Rood. During his stay, he toured OPBAT facilities at the Embassy, traveled to the OPBAT base on Great Exuma, and observed OPBAT operations.
At a reception at the Ambassador’s residence October 16, Mr. O’Connell reaffirmed the United States commitment to OPBAT. “While there may be change in the program, the change will be bad news for drug dealers. We are still evaluating all the options, but we are confident that OPBAT will maintain or improve its current level of effectiveness. Under any scenario, the Department of Defense will continue to support the program.”
According to Ambassador Rood, the agencies involved in OPBAT continue to evaluate several options that allow the Army to relocate its Blackhawk helicopters, which have wartime capabilities currently needed in other theaters of operation to help combat terrorism, and replace them with other assets that can maintain the capacity of the mission. “I was very happy with the visit,” said Ambassador Rood. “I am encouraged that we can meet the Army’s need for the helicopters and improve OPBAT at the same time. The potential for OPBAT is exciting, as is the Department of Defense pledge for continued support. This looks like it could be a real win-win.”