SEPTEMBER 8, 2026 – Exercise Phoenix Express, a premier multinational maritime exercise facilitated by U.S. Naval Forces Africa and led by U.S. 6th Fleet, began its 21st iteration at La Goulette Naval Base in Tunisia, Sept. 7.
Hosted by the Tunisian Navy, this 12-day exercise brings together North African, European and U.S. maritime forces as part of a global network of maritime security forces to enhance cooperation and expertise in maritime security operations in the southern Mediterranean Sea. Tunisia and the United States have a long history of partnership exemplified by the Phoenix Express series of exercises which have been a focal point of our military-to-military cooperation since 2004.
“The true strength of Phoenix Express lies in combining cutting-edge maritime technologies with the exceptional professionalism of the forces who operate them,” said Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, commander of U.S. 6th Fleet and Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO. “Phoenix Express reinforces African partner nation’s resolve and capability to detect and deter illegal activities that threaten freedom of navigation and the free flow of maritime commerce.”
Phoenix Express 2026 features integrated land and at-sea phases, utilizing regional maritime operations centers to share real-time data and establish a common operational picture. Through joint search and rescue drills, simulated ship boardings and live demonstrations, participating forces work side-by-side to refine tactical procedures. These collaborative events strengthen the coalition’s collective capacity to protect vital trade routes and counter regional threats.
“The partnership between the United States and Tunisia dates back nearly 230 years to our historic 1797 Treaty of Peace and Friendship,” said Bill Bazzi, U.S. ambassador to Tunisia. “Today, as Tunisia leads the way in hosting Phoenix Express, we are proud to stand side-by-side with our Tunisian hosts, regional Allies and partners to ensure the vital shipping lanes of the Mediterranean remain safe and open. Through Phoenix Express, we are enhancing our defense capabilities to respond to shared threats and safeguarding Americans and Tunisians alike.”
Working alongside partner nations, U.S. 6th Fleet will expand its integration of advanced systems and tracking tools to demonstrate their use in detecting and deterring illegal activities in African exclusive economic zones.
Participating nations in Phoenix Express 2026 include Algeria, Belgium, Egypt, France, Georgia, Italy, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Tunisia, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and the U.S.
Phoenix Express is one of three regional maritime exercises led by U.S. Naval Forces Africa as part of a comprehensive strategy to provide collaborative opportunities to African forces and international partners to address maritime security concerns.
Headquartered in Naples, Italy, U.S. 6th Fleet conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partner forces, to advance U.S. national interests and promote security and stability in Europe and Africa.
For more information from U.S. 6th Fleet and U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa, visit www.c6f.navy.mil.
From U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs