Tanzania, US strengthen security cooperation
DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA and US will conduct two joint military training exercises and programmes aimed at enhancing regional security and peacekeeping capabilities.
According to a statement released yesterday by the US Embassy in Tanzania, the land-based Justified Accord 2025 exercise focuses on building the Tanzania Peoples Defence Forces (TPDF) peacekeeping capabilities, while the naval-based Cutlass Express maritime exercise brings together Indian Ocean countries to boost maritime domain awareness and security.
“As part of ongoing USTanzania military and security collaboration, the US and Tanzanian governments are pleased to announce two upcoming joint training exercises and programmes aimed at enhancing regional security and peacekeeping capabilities,” reads the statement.
According to the statement, over the past 25 years, the US has worked closely with Tanzanian military and security forces to counter terrorism, ensure territorial integrity and support international peacekeeping operations.
A critical part of this cooperation is the Professional Military Education (PME) provided to hundreds of TPDF officers at US military institutions, which strengthens mutual capabilities and deepens the partnership between the two nations.
The statement further reads that the Cutlass Express maritime exercise is one example of the growing security cooperation between the US and Tanzania.
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Taking place in Dar es Salaam and Tanga, this exercise will bring together more than 15 countries, including US and Tanzanian forces, to sharpen maritime interdiction skills.
In alignment with the Djibouti Code of Conduct, Tanzania continues to demonstrate leadership in promoting a safe and secure Indian Ocean maritime environment, free from criminal and unregulated activities.
According to the statement, participating forces will practice modern boarding techniques, legal searches, and the integration of the US SEAVISION maritime awareness system to enhance coordination and improve regional security efforts. Another training will be on the Justified Accord 2025 exercise.
It is focused on joint Peace Support Operations training, which will bring together US and Tanzanian land forces at Msata Military Training Base.
This exercise provides invaluable experience in counter-improvised explosive device (C-IED) tactics, gender protection, medical evacuation procedures and the integration of both manned and unmanned aerial vehicles in peace operations.
As Tanzania continues to contribute forces to the United Nations peacekeeping missions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Central African Republic, Justified Accord ensures that Tanzanian forces remain prepared for complex, high-stakes missions.
For the first time, Justified Accord 2025 will include a special forces curriculum designed specifically for Tanzanian Special Forces.
This new addition, taking place at the Peace Training Centre, strengthens security cooperation and furthers Tanzania’s role as a key regional security partner.
According to the statement, the training will bring temporary increase in military activity.
“From February 10 to 22, there will be an increase in military aircraft and naval activities in the vicinity of Tanga Port and Msata, as US and Tanzanian forces conduct joint training exercises. This enhanced activity is part of the continued commitment to ensuring the safety, stability and security of the region,” reads part of the statement.
“The US-Tanzania security cooperation remains strong and vital to ensuring peace and stability across the region. As both nations continue to deepen their partnership, they remain committed to addressing shared security challenges and building a safer, more prosperous future for all,” conclude the statement.
