The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) has officially disclosed plans for its upcoming Officer Candidate Training Course 2501, which will feature comprehensive live-ammunition drills at the Crabbs Training Facility. Scheduled from January 5 through January 9, 2026, these intensive training operations will run daily between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
In a distinctive development, the military unit has programmed a specialized nocturnal live-fire session on Thursday, January 8. This after-dark training module is projected to conclude by 8:00 PM, extending the day’s activities beyond typical daylight hours.
Authorities have proactively issued advisories to communities adjacent to the training grounds, alerting residents to anticipate audible detonations and substantial explosive reverberations during the exercise periods. The defense force emphasizes that these activities are part of structured training protocols and reassures citizens that comprehensive safety measures will be rigorously implemented throughout all operations.
The ABDF leadership has expressed gratitude for civilian cooperation and understanding, highlighting that such training endeavors are fundamental to maintaining operational readiness and reinforcing the nation’s defense capabilities. These exercises represent the military’s ongoing commitment to excellence in professional training and national security preparedness.