US to Launch Drone Training at Exercise African Lion 2026

The US Army will introduce unmanned aerial system (UAS) training during the African Lion 2026 exercise, aiming to strengthen regional security capabilities and integrate emerging technologies into operations.

The pilot program will begin in Morocco with two courses for 16 participants, covering UAS integration and hands-on flight training across multiple systems.

African Lion 2026, running from mid-April to early May, involves more than 10,000 troops from 20 nations and takes place in Morocco, Tunisia, Senegal, and Ghana.

Gen. Christopher Donahue, commanding general of US Army Europe and Africa, said the project supports the broader goal of establishing a regional drone training network across Africa.

“What we want is to focus on an approach of how we solve problems,” Star and Stripes quoted him as saying, highlighting the concept as a “sustainable, enduring capability.”

Covering Modern Technologies

Alongside UAS training, more than 40 American industry partners will embed with military units to test advanced systems in realistic conditions.

The initiative targets operational gaps, including mission command, deep strike capabilities, and defensive systems.

“Our ultimate purpose is to translate the senior leader’s vision for transformation into tangible, battlefield-ready capabilities,” US Army Advanced Capability Directorate Project Manager Lt. Col. Ramon Leonguerrero explained during the exercise’s announcement.

A key focus is transitioning from manual processes to real-time, data-driven operations using artificial intelligence, as well as intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.

The exercise will also feature an open-air testing environment where troops and vendors assess AI, robotics, and digital systems, with immediate feedback used to refine and scale technologies.

“Our goal is to close the gap between emerging technology and the warfighter, using African Lion 26 to rapidly field and validate the tools and technology needed for a decisive edge,” Leonguerrero stated.