Mauritania joins Gulf of Guinea naval drills
The Mauritanian navy participated in the annual Grand African NEMO 2026 exercise from October 29 to November 6.
Mauritania's navy participated in regional naval drills in the Gulf of Guinea as part of the annual "Grand African NEMO 2026" exercise. The drills, which ran from October 29 to November 6, involved naval forces from multiple countries and focused on combating illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and piracy. The exercise also included search and rescue operations, medical evacuations, and efforts against illegal fishing.
The Mauritanian army announced its participation via its official Facebook page, stating the navy deployed the vessel "Timbédra" and a special forces team. Liaison officers also attended the West Africa Maritime Coordination Centre (CRESMAO) and the Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) in Praia. This involvement aimed to enhance maritime military cooperation, share experiences, and build the Mauritanian navy's operational capabilities.
The exercise scenarios were designed to address maritime security threats in the Gulf of Guinea. The participation of the "Timbédra" and its special forces team highlights Mauritania's commitment to regional maritime security initiatives and inter-state military collaboration.