Operation Juniper Shield

Operation Juniper Shield was a military effort led by the United States and its partners in the Saharan and Sahel regions of Africa. It aimed to stop groups that could harm people and control the movement of weapons and drugs in the area. This operation was part of a larger worldwide effort to keep people safe.

The U.S. Congress provided money to help African countries fight against threats from groups in places like Algeria, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Nigeria, and Morocco. This help included training for local forces and projects to improve schools and airports.

Canada also sent small teams to Mali in 2011. These teams worked with Malian soldiers to teach skills like communication, planning, and first aid, but they did not fight. Their goal was to support the local military and help the community.

Mission

Operation Enduring Freedom Trans Sahara was a training mission to help 10 nations fight against insurgents in their area. The U.S. Africa Command said this operation was one of the main efforts to stop terrorism. It helped build friendly relationships, improve security, and bring countries together in the Trans Sahara area. The operation also aimed to strengthen efforts against terrorism and improve border security, support democratic government, and build stronger ties between militaries. Through this mission, the U.S. provided training, equipment, and advice to help these countries protect themselves and stop extremist activities.

In 2013, the operation was renamed Operation Juniper Shield. This new name covers American activities in Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Tunisia.

Training programs

Flintlock

Twice a year, a special training program called Flintlock brings together troops from many countries. This program helps improve skills in areas like medical care, peacekeeping, and leadership. It started in 1988 and is now held in Africa. However, in 2012, it was postponed because of challenges in Mali.

The Atlas Accord

Even though Flintlock was postponed, another program called the Atlas Accord started in 2012. This program teaches African military members important skills, especially in planning and moving supplies. The training happens both in classrooms and in real situations.

African Lion exercise

The biggest training event is African Lion, held every year by the US and Morocco. Since 2008, it has helped troops learn many skills, including moving supplies by air and working together in teams. Over 900 Moroccans and 1,200 Americans join this two-week exercise.

History

In 2007, a U.S. airplane was damaged by gunfire while delivering supplies in Mali, but no Americans were hurt. Special forces were sent to help fight terrorism there. In 2012, the operation's name changed to Operation Juniper Shield.

U.S. forces arrived in Niger in 2013 to help nearby countries fight terrorism, using drones for surveillance. By 2017, about 800 U.S. troops were in Niger, mostly building bases and helping local forces. In 2023, political changes in Niger affected the operation.