During the large-scale multinational maritime security exercise Phoenix Express 2026, which took place on September 17 in Bizerte, Tunisia, U.S. and Tunisian service members demonstrated cutting-edge technologies. Task Force 66 operators presented Lightfish unmanned platforms to guests and Tunisian Navy representatives.
The maneuvers were supported by U.S. European Command and led by the U.S. 6th Fleet under U.S. Naval Forces Africa. The exercise brought together maritime forces from North Africa, Europe, and the U.S. to enhance cooperation and expertise in security operations in the southern Mediterranean Sea, according to DVIDS.
In addition to the Lightfish drone presentation, U.S. 6th Fleet Commander Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, Tunisian exercise director Commodore Rejeb Gara Ali, and combined military leadership observed a visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) demonstration and discussed prospects for integrating advanced unmanned systems into actual combat and patrol operations.
