The US-Bangladesh joint military exercise is expected to begin on Saturday, diplomatic sources told UNB yesterday.

Two C-130 US aircraft along with 40 to 50 personnel from the US Air Force Reserve Unit will arrive in the city on Saturday. they said.

Besides, an advance team of the US forces was due in the city last night.

The one-week exercise, would focus on enhancing the capability of Bangladesh to cope with natural disasters like flood and cyclone.

Asked about the possibility of US forces joining in the rescue and relief operation during the bhgditlg flood, the sources said, the matter is being worked out by the two governments.

The US forces may conduct both training and rescue and relief operation during their stay in the country.