USMC trains Senegal forces
A team of around ten US Marine Corps (USMC) soldiers, sailors and coastguardsmen are currently undertaking the training of Senegalese Companie Fusilier de Marine Commandos (COFUMACO), the USMC announced on 5 July.
The team was assigned to the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa and are training the forces near St. Louis, Senegal, through a nearly six-week period that began on 1 June.
The Senegalese forces are being taught small-boat operations and small-unit infantry tactics. So far, the training has been focused on operational planning, land navigation skills and combat marksmanship.
Marine Capt. Joseph Burger, officer-in-charge, said: 'The Companie Fusilier de Marine Commandos are a Marine Corps equivalent and fall under the Senegalese Navy. The operations conducted by the COFUMACO are characterised by land and water based patrols, making proficiency in light infantry and small boat operation skills crucial.
'The Senegalese utilise a French system for military operations. In general, the ways we both operate are similar, but there are differences. We have dealt with this issue by explaining that this is how we do business, but there are many different ways to achieve the same effect. The end state and ultimate goal of the training is the conduct of a small boat raid utilising classes and practical application over marine corps methods and procedures.'
You may also like
More from Defence Notes
-
![UK Parliament told that Europe needs to do more within NATO and undertake reforms]()
UK Parliament told that Europe needs to do more within NATO and undertake reforms
Speaking before a committee on European affairs, the speakers addressed recent developments following an eventful few days. During this period, the UK pushed for increased support for Ukraine, while the EU eased budget constraints to allow for greater defence spending. Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, US President Donald Trump introduced tariffs that could impact the defence industry.
-
![What does the US decision to pause Ukraine support mean for the war and the stock markets?]()
What does the US decision to pause Ukraine support mean for the war and the stock markets?
NATO and other Western countries had been singing from the same song sheet since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia three years ago but the alliance has been weakened as the new US administration under President Donald Trump pauses military aid to Ukraine.
-
![Ireland begins work on buying fighter jets and doubling the naval fleet]()
Ireland begins work on buying fighter jets and doubling the naval fleet
Since the release of Ireland’s Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF) report two years ago there have been whisperings about the potential of Ireland buying fighter jets, one of the most ambitious recommendations. The prospect has now inched closer.
-
![UK defence budget increased to 2.5% by 2027 as geopolitical landscape darkens]()
UK defence budget increased to 2.5% by 2027 as geopolitical landscape darkens
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer raises defence spending, while both NATO and President Trump demand significant further increases.
-
![Ukraine leads the way on battlefield use of directed energy weapons]()
Ukraine leads the way on battlefield use of directed energy weapons
Increased drone use in Ukraine and in Middle Eastern conflicts has created a strong impetus to develop laser and radio-frequency firepower as exploration of direct-energy technology intensifies.
-
![Saudi Arabia eyes large procurement spend as it boosts 2025 defence budget to $78 billion]()
Saudi Arabia eyes large procurement spend as it boosts 2025 defence budget to $78 billion
The new figure is an increase from US$75.8 billion in 2024 and showcases the country’s focus on its Saudi Vision 2030 to achieve a diversified and sustainable economy, reducing the Kingdom’s dependency on oil.
