“Global Forces Unite: Egypt’s ‘Bright Star 2023’ Military Spectacle with 8,000 Troops from 34 Nations”
The Egyptian Military Forces declared that “Bright Star 2023,” a collaborative defense exercise involving 8,000 personnel from 34 nations, will take place at the Mohammed Najib Military Base from 31 August to 14 September 2023.
The objective of the exercise is to strengthen military collaboration and address common threats and vulnerabilities, according to a statement from the Army, as reported by Daily News Egypt.
“Bright Star” is recognized as one of the most significant and long-standing joint military drills globally, originating in October 1980. It occurs in Egypt biennially, featuring the participation of the United States alongside various other nations.
This exercise offers a platform for the nations involved to share knowledge and become acquainted with the latest military technology and equipment. Scenarios covered include both conventional and unconventional warfare, including security measures and counter-terrorism tactics.
The drill includes ground forces, infantry, armored brigades, artillery units, navy, air force, and special operations teams from Egypt and the US, in addition to contributions from other nations. The Thunderbolt and Paratroopers units also take part in this event.
The “Bright Star” exercise symbolizes Egypt’s strategic and defense relationships with the US and additional countries. It highlights Egypt’s capability to integrate diverse military philosophies from both Eastern and Western combat strategies.
The US and NATO allies regard Bright Star as a vital exercise, as it provides experience in operating in desert environments. Egypt and numerous other nations also gain valuable insights into Western weaponry and strategies.
Simultaneously, contingents of the Saudi Armed Forces arrived in the Arab Republic of Egypt on 31 August to partake in the “Bright Star 2023” exercise.
The Head of the Training and Development Authority of the Saudi Armed Forces, Major General Adel Al-Balawi, mentioned that the exercise aims to share expertise and coordinate collaborative efforts among the forces from allied and friendly nations, as stated by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
“The military forces, encompassing their land, air, maritime, and air defense divisions, are actively participating in the drill with deployed troops, planning and observation officers, along with forces from 34 allied nations,” he added.
He clarified that the exercise is also designed to harmonize operational frameworks, enhance the capabilities of the involved personnel, strategize and execute anti-terrorism and unconventional warfare missions, plan support operations, manage logistical and medical evacuation efforts, refine operational methodologies, and improve counter-terrorism training, along with boosting maritime security.
