Tunisia to host African Lion military exercises in 2025, strengthening defense ties with US

Tunisia to host African Lion military exercises in 2025, strengthening defense ties with US
Members of the Tunisian Armed Forces during African Lion 2024. (Photo Lukas Sparks, US Army)

Tunisia will host 2025 African Lion military drills, making it the country’s largest defense exercise yet, the Defense Post reports. The US-led African Lion fosters military cooperation between the US and several Africa nations. The exercises will occur in Tunisia, Morocco, Senegal, and Ghana from April to May, involving 8,000 personnel. 

Despite its smaller army, Tunisia plays a vital role in international defense, supported by the US and EU. Recent investments include $100 million in US training and equipment since 2020 and $1 billion in security cooperation since 2011. Upgrades to the Ben Ghilouf training base have modernized facilities for joint operations. 

The EU has also funded Tunisia’s border control initiatives, providing €100 million in 2023 for migration and anti-smuggling efforts. However, rights groups criticize the impact on migrants and asylum seekers. Analysts point out that Tunisia’s strengthened military partnerships underline its strategic importance in regional security.

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