The UK Armed Forces are currently involved in two significant military exercises: Justified Accord and Cutlass Express, both led by the United States. These exercises feature over 2,000 personnel from 29 countries, including 22 from Africa, aimed at enhancing regional security and fostering international cooperation.
Exercise Justified Accord
Taking place from February 10 to 21, Justified Accord is a large-scale multinational military drill centered on land operations. Hosted in Djibouti, Kenya, and Tanzania, the UK plays a crucial role in this exercise. The UK’s 3 RIFLES B Company is partnering with the US 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Kenyan Army, the Kenyan Marines, and military members from Tanzania and Somalia.
The drills involve various combat scenarios, including coordinating ground attacks, tactics for urban warfare, managing air support, utilizing drones, and conducting medical evacuations. These exercises are designed to ready military units for real-world situations, highlighting the necessity of quick and effective collaboration among different forces in high-pressure conditions.
Exercise Cutlass Express
Simultaneous to Justified Accord, Cutlass Express focuses on maritime security and mainly occurs around Mauritius, Seychelles, and Tanzania. This naval exercise trains personnel in vessel boarding and control tactics, ensuring teams are prepared to secure ships of varying sizes in hostile environments. These drills are essential for enhancing the capacity to combat piracy, smuggling, and other maritime threats, which contributes to the safety of regional waters.
Together, these exercises reinforce the strong military partnership between the UK and the US, supporting ongoing security efforts throughout Africa. Cutlass Express is now in its 15th year, while Justified Accord has been developing since 1998. Both operations align with the African Union’s security objectives, getting military forces ready for possible future missions under the United Nations and African Union on the continent.
The UK’s Broader Commitment to African Security
In addition to these exercises, the UK has played a vital role in improving security in Africa. Notably, it assisted in establishing Kenya’s first marine unit and continues to collaborate with special forces in Nigeria and Ghana. This sustained support demonstrates the UK’s commitment to promoting stability and security across the African continent.
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