Cutlass Express 2026 (CE26) arrives at a decisive moment for maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean, where drug trafficking, human smuggling, and illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing continue to threaten coastal economies and regional stability.

Senior fellows from the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies visited U.S. Africa Command headquarters on Feb. 4, for a strategic overview of the command's mission and its partnership-focused approach to security in Africa.

Sailors from the U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa Band used music and cultural engagement to strengthen partnerships in Mauritius during Exercise Cutlass Express 2026.

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting al-Shabaab on Feb. 10, 2026.

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting al-Shabaab on Feb. 9, 2026.

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia on Feb. 3, 2026.