Libya takes part in Africom Flintlock 2026

Sirte is preparing to host part of the Flintlock 2026 military exercise, organised by United States Africa Command (Africom), in the coming days, according to official statements.

The Government of National Unity announced on Thursday evening that units affiliated with the Ministry of Defence have been deployed to the central city to take part in the drills.

Flintlock is an annual military exercise led by Africom since 2005, aimed at strengthening the operational capabilities of participating forces, particularly in counter-terrorism and border security. It is widely regarded as the largest special operations training exercise on the African continent.

The exercise brings together African forces alongside the United States and a number of international partners, with a focus on enhancing cooperation, coordination and joint readiness among participating units.

In earlier remarks on 15 October 2025, Africom’s Deputy Commander, John Brennan, highlighted ongoing efforts to support the unification of Libya’s security institutions and to promote closer coordination between the eastern and western regions of the country.

He noted that Libya possesses significant economic potential and opportunities to develop its security sector, but stressed that real progress depends on achieving genuine unity among its security forces.

Brennan added that the Flintlock exercises extend beyond military training, contributing to capacity-building and reinforcing Libya’s sovereignty in determining its future. He also said the initiative aims to help bridge existing divisions within the country’s military institutions.

The upcoming drills in Sirte come amid broader efforts to enhance security cooperation and stabilisation across Libya and the wider region.