Chadian and U.S. special operations forces launched a short joint training exercise in N'Djamena. The exercise focuses on civil-military relations and improving interoperability during counter-terrorism operations.
The US Army's 91st Civil Affairs Battalion and Chad's Special Groups Division Anti‑Terrorism–Pan Sahel Initiative (DGSAT‑PSI) began the Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) to strengthen operational cooperation, the Chadian outlet Alwihda Info reported on August 13.
The week‑long program focuses on civil‑military operations, including engagement with civilian populations, civilian reconnaissance and tactical combat casualty care. The exchange is designed to improve coordination and operational efficiency while consolidating trust between partner forces.
By building specialized civil‑military capabilities, the exercise is intended to enable US and Chadian personnel to operate more effectively alongside regional partners and contribute to stability in the Sahel.
The training comes as Washington and N'Djamena cautiously rebuild security ties after a period of tension. Ahead of Chad's May 2024 presidential election, the government requested the withdrawal of US troops, prompting a phased pullout of roughly 100 American personnel.
US Africa Command later negotiated the return of a limited contingent. Senior US officers said in September 2024 that a "limited number" of Special Forces would come back once specifics were worked out.
Chad has long been a key US partner in the Sahel, hosting periodic medical readiness exercises, counter‑IED training and multinational counter‑terrorism drills such as the US Africa Command‑led Flintlock series.
In 2024, US and Chadian medical teams concluded a Medical Readiness Exercise (MEDREX) in N'Djamena, underscoring the health‑care and trauma‑response dimension of the partnership. At the same time, N'Djamena has pursued a diversified security strategy, maintaining cooperation with Washington while also rebuilding defense ties with France as instability persists across the Sahel.
