The French amphibious helicopter carrier, Mistral, has docked at the Port autonome de Dakar in Senegal for a series of military exercises with the Senegalese military. The visit, which took place from October 2 to 6, 2026, aims to strengthen cooperation between the two nations in the field of defense. The Mistral's presence in Dakar is part of the CORYMBE 26 naval deployment in the Gulf of Guinea, which began on September 23.
The exercises involve joint movements between Dakar and the Mont-Rolland training center in Thiès, as well as a naval exercise to improve coordination at sea. The training program also includes firing drills with the Senegalese Army, a presentation of drone capabilities, and a helicopter exercise. These activities are designed to enhance the military capabilities of both nations and promote interoperability.
The visit of the Mistral takes place in a significant context, following the withdrawal of French troops from Senegal in July 2025, after over 60 years of permanent presence. Although the two countries have ended their long-standing military partnership, they are working to finalize a new defense and security agreement. The current exercises demonstrate the ongoing cooperation between France and Senegal in the field of defense.
The French and Senegalese militaries will also engage in exchanges of expertise, with officers from the Mistral set to discuss with students at the Senegalese Defense Institute. This interaction aims to foster greater understanding and cooperation between the two nations. The French ambassador to Senegal, Christine Fages, described the visit as a symbol of the reconstruction of the military partnership around common strategic interests.
According to the Senegalese government, the current cooperation with France aligns with the country's new defense doctrine, which prioritizes territorial integrity, promotion of strategic interests, equality between partners, and avoidance of dependence. The visit of the Mistral demonstrates Senegal's commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities while maintaining a balanced relationship with its partners.
The CORYMBE 26 naval deployment, which began on September 23, involves the Mistral and other French naval assets. The deployment aims to promote maritime security and stability in the Gulf of Guinea, a region of growing strategic importance. The visit to Dakar is an integral part of this effort, highlighting the importance of cooperation between France and Senegal in addressing regional security challenges.
The exercises between the French and Senegalese militaries will conclude on October 6, 2026, marking the end of the Mistral's visit to Dakar. The successful completion of these drills will likely pave the way for future cooperation between the two nations, reinforcing their commitment to mutual defense and security.
Key points
- The French amphibious helicopter carrier Mistral visited Dakar for joint military exercises with Senegalese forces from October 2 to 6, 2026.
- The visit aims to strengthen cooperation between France and Senegal in the field of defense, despite the withdrawal of French troops from Senegal in 2025.
- The exercises demonstrate the ongoing cooperation between the two nations, aligning with Senegal's new defense doctrine and promoting regional security in the Gulf of Guinea.
