France, Côte d'Ivoire, and Gabon Conduct Multinational Military Exercise

The multinational military exercise, dubbed "Grand exercice multinational GEX 2026," kicked off in Côte d'Ivoire on November 12, 2026, and will run until November 24, 2026, in the cities of Jacqueville, Yamoussoukro, and Bouaké. The exercise aims to test the reactivity and coordination of the participating armies in the face of security threats in the region. Nearly 1200 Ivoirian military personnel from various branches, including land, air, sea, and special forces, are participating in the exercise.

The exercise also features a hundred military personnel from Gabon's motorized infantry and at least 600 French soldiers, supported by three Mirage 2000 aircraft and an amphibious helicopter carrier. During the exercise, troops, military vehicles, ships, and aircraft will be deployed in the designated areas, causing some noise disturbances. The exercise includes various scenarios, such as hostage rescue, forest combat, and interventions in difficult terrain, to prepare the military for real-world situations.

Côte d'Ivoire's Chief of Staff, General Lassina Doumbia, has reassured the public, particularly residents of Jacqueville, Yamoussoukro, and Bouaké, that the exercise is a normal military activity and that they should continue with their daily activities as usual. The exercise is a joint effort between the three countries to strengthen their military cooperation and enhance regional security.

The Gulf of Guinea and West Africa have been facing various security threats, including piracy, kidnapping, and terrorism. The exercise aims to improve the participating countries' ability to respond to these threats and protect their citizens. The exercise will also provide an opportunity for the military personnel to share their expertise and build their capacity to operate together.

After Côte d'Ivoire hosts the exercise until November 24, 2026, Gabon will take over and host the exercise until the end of the month. The exercise is a significant demonstration of the military cooperation between France, Côte d'Ivoire, and Gabon and their commitment to regional security.

The exercise "GEX 2026" is a large-scale military operation that involves extensive planning and coordination between the participating countries. It is an essential part of their efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region and to protect their citizens from security threats.

Key points

• The exercise involves nearly 1900 military personnel from France, Côte d'Ivoire, and Gabon.
• The exercise aims to enhance the reactivity and coordination of the participating armies in the face of security threats in the Gulf of Guinea and West Africa.
• The exercise will run until the end of November 2026, with Côte d'Ivoire hosting until November 24, 2026, and Gabon taking over for the remainder of the month.