The region's largest training exercise: "Bright Star" maneuvers begin in Egypt

Bright Star exercises in Egypt with the participation of 43 countries

Bright Star maneuvers begin in Egypt with the participation of 43 countries

Egypt has begun implementing the joint Egyptian-American training exercise "Bright Star 2025," hosted at the Mohamed Naguib Military Base. This exercise is considered the largest military exercise in the Middle East.

Forty-three countries are participating in the military exercises, including 13 participating countries with more than 7,900 fighters, and 30 observer countries. The exercise will run from August 28 to September 10. The Chief of Staff of the Egyptian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa, inspected the final preparations for hosting the training activities. During his tour, he listened to a "detailed explanation of all the procedures that reflect the advanced preparations and planning to host this massive exercise, which is one of the largest joint military exercises in the world."

The Egyptian Chief of Staff recommended redoubling efforts and maximizing the use of all capabilities and potentials to achieve the desired goal of the training, ensuring its distinguished appearance in line with the Egyptian Armed Forces' standing, which has earned the trust and respect of its counterparts regionally and internationally, according to a statement by the Egyptian military spokesman.

For its part, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) considered that "the Bright Star exercises represent an extension of the strategic security relationship between Egypt and the United States, a historic partnership that plays a leading role in combating terrorism, enhancing regional security, and efforts to counter the spread of violent extremism."

Military experts and analysts, speaking to Sky News Arabia, believe that the Bright Star exercises contribute to the Egyptian Armed Forces gaining advanced combat experience by examining the latest Western weapons systems and tactics. They also enhance Egyptian-American strategic cooperation and affirm Egypt's position as a reliable strategic partner and a pivotal regional power.

Messages... and Implications

Major General Nasr Salem, professor of strategic sciences at the Military Academy for Graduate Studies and former head of the Reconnaissance Service, believes that the Bright Star exercises hosted by Egypt represent a practical embodiment of the deterrence strategy, which is based on the principle "If you want to prevent war, prepare for it."

Salem told Sky News Arabia that the deterrence strategy is based on three main pillars: the first is possessing more advanced and powerful weapons than the enemy; the second is enhancing the efficiency of the armed forces through continuous and advanced training; and the third is demonstrating this power to the world through joint military parades and maneuvers.

He added, "When Egypt conducts extensive training exercises with the participation of the United States, NATO countries, and more than 40 other countries, it sends a clear message that the Egyptian army is strong, advanced, and capable of protecting the nation's interests. At the same time, it reassures the Egyptian people that the country's security is in safe hands."

Regarding the impact of these exercises on the efficiency of officers and soldiers, Salem explained that joint training with major armies allows Egyptian forces to become familiar with the latest weapons and combat techniques, identify the strengths of these armies, and avoid weaknesses. He emphasized that every joint training exercise represents "added value" for both parties, as the armies exchange field and operational experiences.

Regarding military cooperation between Cairo and Washington, Major General Nasr Salem emphasized that the US military establishment views Egypt as a "cornerstone in the region," and its role in any equation related to the Middle East cannot be ignored. Since the signing of the peace agreement, the United States has been keen to participate in joint exercises with Egypt on an ongoing basis.

Maneuvers Amid Regional Crises

For his part, Egyptian military expert and member of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs, Major General Dr. Mohamed El-Shahawy, believes that the Bright Star maneuvers carry significant significance this year in terms of timing and the extent of participation, given the escalating crises in the Middle East, as well as the ongoing Israeli war on the Gaza Strip.

In statements to Sky News Arabia, Al-Shahawy explained that these exercises represent a clear message of the Egyptian army's capabilities and competence. He noted that the broad participation of countries reflects the level of confidence in Egypt and underscores the strengthening of military cooperation and the convergence of strategic visions between them and their partners.

He pointed out that the importance of these exercises stems from the exchange of expertise and the development of combat skills. They allow Egypt to view the latest armament systems and equipment used by major armies, in addition to learning about various Western military doctrines. Furthermore, they represent a practical opportunity to strengthen the morale of the armed forces, particularly in shooting training and direct combat, where Egyptian fighters have demonstrated remarkable superiority.

He emphasized that the Bright Star maneuvers come at a very critical time, to confirm "Egypt's position as a regional power and a fundamental pillar in the equations of regional and international security and stability."