U.S. military forces will participate in Exercise BRIGHT STAR 2018 alongside the Egyptian Armed Forces and other nations at Mohamed Naguib Military Base, Egypt, from September 8 to 20, 2018. The exercise traces its origins to the Camp David Accords of 1978 and reflects the ongoing strategic security relationship between Egypt and the United States.
"This exercise is an important symbol of the long-standing strategic relationship between the U.S. military and the Egyptian Armed Forces," stated U.S. Embassy Cairo Charge d’Affaires Thomas Goldberger. "We look forward to the continued strengthening of the relationship through this military-to-military engagement."
Around 800 U.S. military service members are expected to join this year's BRIGHT STAR, marking their participation for a second consecutive year following an invitation from the Egyptian Armed Forces. The focus will be on enhancing regional security and cooperation while improving interoperability in irregular warfare scenarios.
The exercise aims to strengthen military relationships not only between U.S. and Egyptian forces but also among other participating nations within the Central Command area of responsibility. The United States continues to support Egypt through various means including political, economic, social, and security cooperation.