AFRICOM Announces Flintlock 2026 Exercises in Sirte as a Step Toward Libyan Armed Forces Unity

Sirte: The commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, announced that the Flintlock 2026 exercises will be held in Sirte next year, with the participation of forces from both eastern and western Libya.

According to Libyan News Agency, in a video statement released Tuesday, General Anderson stated that the Flintlock exercises will be a step that embodies the United States’ commitment to practical cooperation with Libya and underscores his country’s commitment to working with and integrating armed forces across the country into a unified force.

The AFRICOM commander reiterated the United States’ unwavering commitment to supporting the unity and stability of the country, emphasizing that Libya has the opportunity to be a regional leader in stability. In the statement, General Anderson praised the warm welcome he received from Libyan leaders throughout the country and expressed his admiration for the level of the Libyan armed forces at the tactical, operational, and strategic levels.

General Anderson highlighted the importance of continued progress toward a unified Libya, as it allows for improved security, which in turn fosters stability that opens the door to economic investment-a crucial element for Libya’s future in providing employment opportunities for the Libyan people. The AFRICOM commander emphasized that unity and stability in Libya are essential for regional security, building on past successes against ISIS, and encouraged the Libyan people to work together for greater stability, peace, and prosperity.