The Joint Special Operations Command is taking part in the multinational exercise ‘Flintlock 26’

• Spain’s participation highlights the Armed Forces’ commitment to joint and combined training, as well as to strengthening cooperation with allied nations in the field of special operations

 The Joint Special Operations Command (MCOE in Spanish) is coordinating the participation of Spanish special operations forces from the Army and Navy in the ‘Flintlock 26’ exercise. In this multinational exercise, special operations forces from various countries are enhancing their interoperability and cooperation in a demanding combined environment, led by the US Special Operations Command Africa (SOCAF).

In Ivory Coast, Spanish military personnel are conducting sessions focused on core tactical skills, including marksmanship, precision shooting, Close Quarters Battle (CQB) and maritime boarding and search procedures in a non-cooperative environment. For the latter, collaboration was carried out with the Maritime Action Vessel (BAM in Spanish) ‘Furor’, currently deployed as part of the European Union’s Coordinated Maritime Presences in the Gulf of Guinea.

At the same time, the Stabilisation Cell, operating as part of the exercise’s ROLE 2, has carried out medical evacuation drills by sea. These exercises enable personnel to practise procedures for the care, stabilisation and transfer of patients in an operational environment, thereby strengthening coordination between the tactical and medical capabilities deployed in the area.

The exercise brings together more than 860 military personnel from 23 countries, who are training in various operational activities to strengthen the exchange of procedures and improve interoperability in a multinational environment.

Specifically, Spain’s participation in ‘Flintlock 26’ highlights the Armed Forces’ commitment to joint and combined training, as well as to strengthening cooperation with allied countries in the field of special operations.

Spain in the ‘Flintlock 2026’ exercise

 ‘Flintlock’, organised by the US Special Operations Command Africa (SOCAF), is the main annual special operations training exercise on the African continent and brings together units from Europe, Africa and North America.

The Spanish contingent, which brings together special operations capabilities from the Army, Navy and Guardia Civil, provides the exercise with a joint and coordinated response in the areas of tactics, support and integration with allied forces.