U.S. Special Operations Forces and Marines of the Mozambican Defence Force on March 15 launched a two-month Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) training program.
The Joint Combined Exchange Training aims to support Mozambique’s efforts in combatting the spread of terrorism and violent extremism, says a statement by AFRICOM.
Mozambican Marines will largely benefit from the experience and knowledge of US Special Forces in low-intensity and counter-insurgence warfare.
U.S. Special Operations Command Africa (SOCAFRICA) Deputy Commander Colonel Richard Schmidt represented the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) during the opening ceremony, while Major General Ramiro Ramos Tulcidás represented the Government of Mozambique.
In addition to training, the U.S. government provided medical and communications equipment.
According to the statement, “The United States priorities the respect for human rights, protection of civilians, and engagement with civil society in all security assistance. The United States is committed to supporting Mozambique with a multifaceted and holistic approach to counter and prevent the spread of terrorism and violent extremism. This approach addresses socioeconomic development issues as well as the security situation. Civilian protection, human rights, and community engagement are central to U.S. cooperation and are foundational to effectively counter the Islamic State in Mozambique.”
This latest military assistance could see a more robust American intervention in wartorn Mozambique including combat casualty care, planning, logistics as well as intelligence assistance.
Dyck Advisory Group (DAG) from South Africa, are providing security training and services to the Mozambique military forces. A recent Amnesty International report accused South African mercenaries in Mozambique of possible war crimes and the indiscriminate killing of civilians.
At the onset of the crises, the French Navy deployed its amphibious helicopter carrier Tonnerre and surveillance frigate Nivose to Mozambique. Both vessels delivered humanitarian cargo to Beira, which was badly affected by Cyclone Idai in mid-March
On board Tonnerre a section of the 1st foreign regiment of engineers (1st REG) equipped with heavy equipment, as well as a detachment from the Marine Tank Infantry Regiment (RICM) with multiple vehicles. Two Gazelle helicopters from the 3rd Combat Helicopter Regiment were part of the Task Force.