On 14 October, Lieutenant General John Brennan, Deputy Commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), announced that Sirte will be a key training location of exercise Flintlock 2026 which will take place next spring. Other key training locations of this exercise will be in Mauritania and Côte d’Ivoire.
According to AFRICOM, the exercise in Libya is made possible by recent changes to the Libya arms embargo, which were enacted in January 2025. These modifications specifically allow for U.S. engagement in training and security cooperation with Libyan forces from both sides, with the express goal of supporting reunification. Italy’s Special Operations Command will play a leading role in planning and executing the Libyan part of Flintlock 26. The involvement of European partners underscores the multinational nature of the initiative and the shared commitment to regional stability.
AFRICOM stated, ‘The participation of western and eastern Libyan forces together marks a significant step forward in Libyan efforts towards unification of military institutions and enabling strong U.S.-Libya security cooperation.’
Brennan emphasized that Flintlock 2026 is more than a tactical exercise. According to him, it is a symbol of progress in Libya. By training together, Libyan forces are not only enhancing their operational capabilities but also demonstrating a collective will to overcome internal divisions and reclaim Libya’s sovereign future. Brennan expressed gratitude to Libyan leaders from both east and west for their coordination and support, as well as to Italy for its leadership. The key training location in Libya will serve as a platform for sharpening counterterrorism skills, deterring malign actors, and promoting peace through strength. It also represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen U.S.-Libya relations and lay the groundwork for increased U.S. investment in a more stable and unified Libya.