The United States and Tanzania have strengthened their security cooperation following the official handover of a US-funded maritime facility to the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF) Navy. The new facility is expected to improve Tanzania’s ability to protect its coastline and contribute to stability in the Western Indian Ocean region.

The facility will help the TPDF Navy maintain and service its vessels more efficiently, improving operational readiness and reducing dependence on external support. Officials from both countries said the project reflects growing cooperation in maritime security and shared efforts to address regional threats.

Speaking during the handover ceremony last week, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Andrew Lentz said the project demonstrates the strong relationship between the two nations.

“This facility represents our shared vision for a secure and prosperous future. By investing in Tanzania’s maritime capabilities, we are strengthening the bonds of trust and cooperation that make both our nations safer and more prosperous,” he said.

Maritime security remains important for trade, fishing, and economic activities along the East African coast. The new installation is expected to strengthen coastal and port security, support efforts to combat illegal trafficking, and improve maritime law enforcement. It will also enhance maritime domain awareness in the region, helping authorities better monitor activities at sea.

The handover comes as Tanzania takes part in Cutlass Express 2026, a multinational maritime exercise involving 19 partner and allied nations. The exercise focuses on improving cooperation, coordination, and operational readiness among participating navies

Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, commander of the U.S. 6th Fleet, described the exercise, which ends on 12 February, as an important platform for regional cooperation.

“Cutlass Express is a cornerstone of maritime security and cooperation in the strategic waters of the East African coast and the Western Indian Ocean,” he said.

“Exercises like Cutlass Express ensure freedom of navigation, strengthen maritime awareness, and improve readiness to counter illegal activities.”

Cutlass Express 2026 includes both shore-based and sea-based training activities. These include visit, board, search, and seizure operations, counter-illegal fishing procedures, and medical response exercises. The exercise also involves the use of unmanned and autonomous systems to improve the detection of illegal activities in African waters.