Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat – The US military has successfully concluded a tunnel warfare exercise in Tifnit, Morocco, as part of the high-profile African Lion 2024 (AL24) training event.
Spearheaded by the US Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), the joint exercise ran from April 19 to May 31 and saw the participation of over 8,100 troops from 27 different nations, including several NATO member states.
The training focused on tunnel warfare, a strategy that involves using underground tunnels and cavities for military operations.
This type of warfare can be used both offensively and defensively, employing tunnels to undermine enemy fortifications, launch surprise attacks, conduct ambushes, and facilitate the covert movement of troops, according to a report from the Defense Blog.
In addition, tunnels provide protection from enemy attacks and can be used as defensive shelters.
African Lion 2024 featured a variety of challenging scenarios designed to enhance the operational readiness of the participating forces. Training included subterranean warfare, psychological operations, building clearing, combined assaults, fast-rope insertion, rappelling, and hostage rescue missions.
The exercises are widely considered to be critical for preparing military personnel to operate effectively in diverse and often hostile environments.
A key aspect of the training was the use of advanced technology, such as the remotely controlled Micro Tactical Ground Robot, which navigated through a subterranean passage during the exercise.
Green Berets from the 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) of the Utah National Guard worked closely with partner forces in the vicinity of Tifnit.
The African Lion serves as a platform for militaries from various countries to learn from each other, improve their skills in handling complex situations, and strengthen partnerships.
The exercise employs a full array of mission capabilities to set the stage for strategic access and enhance the overall readiness of the combined, joint forces.
Read Also: Morocco, US Conduct CBRN Response Demonstration at African Lion 2024
