U.S. using unmanned planes for Panama surveillance -- reports

(PanamaNewsRoom) Fears by some Panamanians that the U.S. is moving to reestablish military bases in Panama have been revived by reports that U.S. Army's Southern Command provided assistance to Panama in constructing naval bases.

A pacifist group in the United States has obtained documents showing that the help has been provided for the “war” on drugs.

The documents allege that the U.S. military has launched unmanned aircraft from airports in Panama for surveillance programs.
La Prensa reported that American officials have confirmed the existence of the programs, but argued that they are being developed as part of a relationship with Panama in the field of security, and that is been coordinated with Panamanian authorities.
According to the officials, the Panamanian government requested assistance with the construction of the stations, which are not used by U.S. forces.

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Original Source: PanamaNewsRoom

Date Retrieved: February 9, 2011