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Flintlock 2024: Strengthening Partnerships and Enhancing Security in Africa
Czechia Special Forces, 601. Skupina Speciálních Sil Generála Moravce, kneel alongside Allied Nations and African partner forces, forming a perimeter on the airfield during rehearsals for Exercise Flintlock 24’s Distinguished Visitors day.
In May 2024, over 1,300 participants from 15 NATO Allies and partners coupled with international forces gathered for Flintlock 24, U.S. Africa Command's premier and largest annual special operations exercise in North and West Africa. Flintlock 24 addressed global security challenges, showcased a united front in the fight against terrorism and regional instability, highlighted and strengthened international partnerships, and collaboration. The participating forces improved their ability to operate seamlessly in joint and combined operations. This enhanced interoperability is crucial for responding effectively to security threats.
Flintlock’s four primary sites provided diverse venues for participants to hone their tactical skills. Key activities included:
- Maritime Operations: Visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) exercises.
- Battle Drills: Close quarter battle drills to enhance combat readiness.
- Border Patrol Operations: Training to improve border security and control.
During Exercise Flintlock 24, members of the Spanish Mando Conjunto de Operaciones Especiales observe and mentor Mauritanian Special Forces as they review the details of a simulated vehicle interdiction against enemy combatants.
Flintlock 24 incorporated a whole-of-government approach, including academics on the rule of law, law of armed conflict, and human rights. Additionally, medical and dental civic action programs were conducted, underscoring the importance of community outreach in enhancing regional stability.
Terrorism remains a significant asymmetric threat to NATO citizens and global stability. The 2022 Strategic Concept acknowledges the increasingly complex strategic environment, highlighting the challenges posed by terrorism, conflict, and instability in the Middle East and Africa. These regions face a myriad of interconnected security, demographic, economic, and political challenges, further exacerbated by climate change, fragile institutions, health emergencies, and food insecurity.
NATO is committed to working with its partners to address these multifaceted threats. By fostering cooperation, capacity building, and mutual support, NATO aims to enhance the resilience of its partner countries and other international actors against terrorism. Flintlock 24 exemplifies this collaborative approach, demonstrating the power of international unity in promoting regional stability and ensuring the security of the participating Allies and NATO partners.
The exercise strengthened the operational capabilities of the participating forces and reinforced the critical importance of multinational partnerships in maintaining global security. As the largest special operations exercise on the African continent, Flintlock continues to be a vital platform for fostering collaboration, building capacity, and enhancing the collective security of nations around the world.
For two decades, Allies have used exercise platforms like Flintlock to foster collaboration between international partners, and Allied special operations forces. These enduring relationships are vital to address the root causes of instability and promote sustainable security solutions.