Flintlock
The Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) program is specifically designed to support U.S. Special Forces training requirements in overseas environments. Although JCET exercises first must satisfy Special Forces mission essential task list requirements (METL); at the same time, the exercise is a training opportunity for the host nation. JCETs can include NCO development, light infantry training, peacekeeping operations, medical operations, human rights training, humanitarian relief operations, airborne operations or leadership training in varying amounts-again based on the needs of the Special Forces and the host nation.
USEUCOM and U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM and U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM) conduct JCETs in Africa with forces from either the 1st, 3rd or 5th Special Forces Group. The Department of Defense pays for JCET training events.
In an effort to enhance sub-regional cooperation and expose Special Forces to a variety of African military experiences, the 5th Special Forces Group combined JCET events within an African sub-region along a common scenario. These events, called FLINTLOCKs, are conducted by USEUCOM twice annually. The exercise scenarios can include JCET-type events described above or other operations, such as disaster management, search and rescue, multi-purpose range construction or combat lifesaver courses.
FLINTLOCKs, like JCETs must first satisfy U.S. special operations forces training requirements and use Department of Defense funds to conduct the training event. USEUCOM and Special Operations Command Europe (SOCEUR) determine FLINTLOCK locations.
The “lean years” of the 1970’s saw an absolute decrease in the number/frequency of operational deployments for 10th SFG(A) – in fact they all but ceased completely. During this time, however, the 10th SFG(A) maintained its training edge through continuous deployments into the European theater to train with NATO allies, and to do unilateral training on environmental skills. These deployments and the annual FLINTLOCK Exercise became the central points of every ODA’s training program. Of course, those events were complimented by language training, as well as environmental training that was possible in and around Fort Devens.
The Group participated in 1st SOCOM’s EDRE/ARTEP evaluation exercise CASINO GAMBIT 1-88 and JCRX FLINTLOCK ‘88. These exercises constituted extreme challenges for the entire Group and provided true tests of overall combat readiness. Summer of 1988 found the Group in an intensive individual and collective training posture highlighted by JCET participation in Belgium, Denmark, West Germany and Italy.
In March/April 1999, Naval Regional Contracting Detachment Naples (NRCD Naples) deployed contingency contracting officers in support of EXERCISE FLINTLOCK IIA in Cote d'Ivoire. This exercise, conducted by the U.S. Army's 96th Civil Affairs Battalion, included road, cafeteria and latrine construction projects, well-drilling requirements and numerous inoculations for various tropical diseases. NRCC contracting officers awarded contracts for these projects valued at $63,000.
In June 2001, NRCC Naples deployed a contingency contracting officer to Mali in support of EXERCISE FLINTLOCK 01. As in 1999, the U.S. Army's 96th Civil Affairs Battalion was coordinating and executing this exercise. Projects for this exercise included renovation and construction of maternity clinics, purchase of school and medical supplies, and the procurement and installation of water well pumps. Total value of the contracts for these projects was $80,000.
South Africa [RSA] hosted a FLINTLOCK between Jun-Aug 2003. US/SANDF delegation agreed that a planning conference would be held at least 12 months prior to the exercise date. Additional details with regard to US exercise scope/objectives included: Bilateral exercise between US/SANDF forces. Exercise would involve full scope of SOF forces/capabilities. SOF mission focus with airborne assault operations. Two to three companies of US SOF forces. Several US Ranger companies. A US SEAL team. SOF capable C-130s/helos.
Flintlock 2005
US military members arrived throughout North and West Africa to participate in exercise Flintlock 2005. Flintlock, which ran June 6-26, was a series of military exercises conducted with US theater security cooperation partners in Africa. European and the NATO partner nations also participated, either directly or in an advisory role.
The principal purpose of this training was to ensure all nations continue developing their partnerships; further enhance their capabilities to halt the flow of illicit weapons, goods and human trafficking in the region; and prevent terrorists from establishing sanctuary in remote areas.
The training took place in several countries: Algeria, Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Niger and Chad. Participants practiced a wide variety of skills to include airborne operations, small-unit tactics, security operations, land navigation, marksmanship, medical skills, human rights training and land warfare.
This exercise also helped participating nations to plan and execute command, control and communications systems in support of future combined humanitarian, peacekeeping and disaster relief operations.
Flintlock 05 supported future training and engagement in Africa's Trans-Saharan Region. US European Command, the command responsible for advancing US interests throughout Europe and much of Africa, began planning the exercise in early 2004.
