The UK Armed Forces are playing a pivotal role in strengthening security across East Africa through two large-scale multinational military exercises: Exercise Justified Accord and Exercise Cutlass Express. These drills, held this week, aim to enhance regional stability and improve international military cooperation.
Exercise Justified Accord, led by the United States, is a multinational land exercise hosted by Djibouti, Kenya, and Tanzania. Running from February 10 to 21, the exercise brings together over 2,000 military personnel from 29 countries, including 22 African nations. It commenced with tabletop discussions before transitioning into live drills that focus on urban warfare, ground attack coordination, drone operations, breaching buildings, and executing medical evacuations.
The UK’s contribution to Exercise Justified Accord includes B Company 3 RIFLES, working alongside the US 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Kenya Army infantry, Kenyan Marines, and forces from Tanzania and Somalia. These joint training efforts ensure that troops can rapidly and effectively collaborate in high-stress combat situations.
Simultaneously, Exercise Cutlass Express is taking place in the waters off Mauritius, Seychelles, and Tanzania. This naval drill, now in its 15th year, is focused on improving maritime security by simulating high-speed vessel boardings and regaining control of ships under fire. The exercise aims to enhance the ability of regional forces to counter threats such as piracy, smuggling, and other maritime crimes.
The UK’s active participation in both exercises highlights its long-term commitment to supporting East Africa’s security and stability. According to Olly Bryant, Defence Attaché at the British High Commission in Nairobi, these training initiatives are essential for fostering strong partnerships in the region.
“The UK is proud to support long-term stability and security across East Africa, and we are honoured to work alongside our allies in delivering high-capacity, high-quality training,” Bryant stated. “Together, we go further and achieve greater success in building a safer, more secure region.”
These exercises align with the African Union’s security objectives, preparing forces for future United Nations and African Union peacekeeping missions. The timing of the drills coincides with the election of a new African Union Chairperson, further underlining the significance of regional cooperation.
The UK’s broader defence strategy in Africa includes the establishment of Kenya’s first Marine Corps and joint training initiatives with Nigeria and Ghana’s special forces. Through these commitments, the UK continues to play a crucial role in bolstering African security and defence capabilities.
