The Flintlock 2026 exercise kicked off in Libya with broad international participation and was inaugurated in Sirte.

Tripoli, April 13, 2026 (LANA) – Senior leaders from Libya, Italy, and the United States issued a joint statement confirming the launch of Exercise Flintlock 2026 in Libya. The exercise will officially begin after an opening ceremony in Sirte this week.

Exercise Flintlock, the flagship annual multinational special operations exercise of the U.S. Africa Command, brings together forces from more than 30 countries and is conducted across Côte d'Ivoire and Libya. The training encompasses integrated air, land, and sea scenarios designed to enhance combat readiness and improve the capabilities of participating nations.

Libya's hosting of this exercise is a significant milestone, as Libyan joint forces are facilitating the training of units from more than ten countries, reflecting Libya's commitment to supporting regional security and strengthening military cooperation.

Italy has also played a pivotal role in planning and supporting the exercise in Libya by providing the necessary leadership and resources to ensure its success.

Exercise Flintlock supports efforts to develop a unified Libyan army, a cornerstone for achieving security, stability, and sustainable development in North Africa. It also reflects an international commitment to supporting stable and sovereign African states.

This international cooperation comes within the framework of strengthening security partnerships and confronting threats targeting the security of Libya and its partners, while emphasizing the strategic importance of Sirte as the location for hosting this exercise for the first time in the country.

...(LANA)...