On September 14, a VBSS exercise was held in Bizerte, Tunisia, bringing together US Marines from the Force Reconnaissance Company and Libyan naval special forces. The exercise took place on board the Tunisian ship NRF Khaireddine (A 700). The VBSS exercise focused on visit, board, search, and seizure operations. The US Marines are part of the 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion of the 2nd Marine Division. The exercise was documented by the US Marine Corps and released on September 16.
The joint exercise is part of Phoenix Express 2026, a multinational maritime security exercise organized with the Tunisian Navy and led by the US Sixth Fleet. The exercise began on September 7 at the La Goulette naval base and brings together naval forces from North Africa, Europe, and the United States. A total of 400 military personnel from 13 countries are participating in the exercise. The event aims to enhance cooperation and interoperability among participating forces.
The VBSS exercise demonstrates the level of cooperation between US and Libyan forces. The training took place on a Tunisian ship, highlighting the importance of the Tunisian Navy in facilitating the exercise. The US-Libya cooperation is a significant aspect of the Phoenix Express exercise. The exercise showcases the ability of participating forces to work together in a maritime security context.
Phoenix Express 2026 is the 21st edition of the exercise, which has been conducted annually since 2006. The exercise is designed to promote regional cooperation and stability in the Mediterranean region. The event includes a range of activities, including maritime interdiction operations and search and rescue exercises. The exercise also provides an opportunity for participating forces to engage in bilateral and multilateral training.
The US Sixth Fleet is leading the exercise, which is part of the US Naval Forces Africa's efforts to promote maritime security in the region. The exercise is taking place in Tunisia, which has become a key partner for the US and other Western countries in the region. The Tunisian Navy is playing a significant role in facilitating the exercise, which is being conducted in the country's territorial waters.
The VBSS exercise is an example of the type of specialized training that takes place during Phoenix Express. The exercise requires participating forces to work together to board, search, and seize a ship. The training is designed to enhance the interoperability and cooperation among participating forces. The exercise also demonstrates the ability of US and Libyan forces to work together in a maritime security context.
The Phoenix Express exercise is an important event in the region, promoting cooperation and stability among participating countries. The exercise demonstrates the commitment of participating countries to maritime security and regional cooperation. The event provides a valuable opportunity for forces to engage in bilateral and multilateral training, enhancing their ability to work together in a range of maritime security contexts.
Key points
- The exercise involved US Marines and Libyan special forces conducting a joint VBSS exercise on a Tunisian ship in Bizerte, Tunisia.
- The exercise is part of Phoenix Express 2026, a multinational maritime security exercise led by the US Sixth Fleet.
- The event brings together 400 military personnel from 13 countries to promote regional cooperation and stability in the Mediterranean region.
