In the final part of our series on the projection of US military power in Africa, we delve into the significance of special joint military exercises between the United States, African countries, and sometimes even European states.
The United States organizes six military exercises annually, spanning from winter to summer, with a diverse range of activities on land and at sea, covering various territories and countries across Africa. States such as Kenya, Chad, Ghana, Ivory Coast (Cote D’Ivoire), Senegal, Morocco, and Tunisia actively participate in multiple training exercises organized by the United States.
One notable exercise is "African Lion," led by the U.S. Army's Southern European Task Force in Africa. It is a joint multinational exercise conducted in Morocco, Tunisia, and Senegal, focusing on countering malicious activity in North Africa and Southern Europe, as well as enhancing interoperability between the United States and its African partners.
Another exercise, "Cutlass Express," is led by the U.S. Navy in Africa, and takes place in coastal areas of East Africa and the western Indian Ocean. This exercise is associated with the U.S. Central Command's International Maritime Exercise against Malicious Influence, Aggression, and Actions in Maritime Regions.
"Flintlock" is a comprehensive exercise led by the Special Operations Command Africa in Senegal, with a primary focus on the G5 Sahel forces, which include joint forces from Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger. The exercise aims to enhance their interoperability with U.S. and NATO special operations forces in countering malicious influence, aggression, and terrorism.
East Africa hosts the "Justified Accord" exercise, conducted under the direction of the U.S. Army's Southern European Task Force in Africa. Taking place in Kenya, this exercise involves more than 20 countries, most of which are not from Africa. The primary objective is to ensure future joint operations, maintain strategic access, and build partner capacity to counter malicious influence, aggression, and terrorism.
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"Obangame Express," led by the U.S. Navy in Africa, is a comprehensive exercise that targets countering malicious influence, aggression, terrorism, and the establishment of bases in the Gulf of Guinea's economic zones and coastal areas of West Africa.
Lastly, "Phoenix Express," an exercise led by the U.S. Navy in Africa, focuses on improving U.S. capabilities and interoperability with European and North African partners. It aims to enhance the self-reliance of maritime partners, assess and expand maritime security cooperation among regional U.S., European, and African partners.
These joint military exercises not only serve the purpose of assisting African countries but also demonstrate the capabilities and military power of the United States. They showcase Washington's commitment to regional security and its intent to strengthen partnerships with African nations.
Having examined the three aspects of the U.S. military influence in Africa—bases, operations, and exercises—it is evident that the United States maintains a significant presence on the continent, surpassing that of Britain and France. With Russia and China also seeking to increase their foothold in Africa, the United States is likely to intensify its presence, as evidenced by the recent visits of high-ranking U.S. officials coinciding with military exercises. The scramble for Africa continues with renewed vigor, as various global powers compete for influence and resources on the continent.
(Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any government or organization.)
