The US Army has deployed its Avenger air defense system to the African continent for the first time, joining a major multinational military exercise.
Troops from the 57th Air Defense Artillery Regiment brought the system to Tunisia’s Ben Ghilouf Training Center for African Lion 2025.
As part of the exercise, the Humvee-mounted launcher fired a Stinger surface-to-air missile, showcasing its short-range air defense capabilities.
The live-fire demonstration highlighted the Avenger’s agility and effectiveness in harsh environments, proving it can deliver rapid, mobile protection even across North Africa’s demanding terrain.
About the Avenger
Developed by Boeing, the Avenger is a key component of the US Army’s layered air defense network.
It carries eight Stinger missiles designed to intercept low-altitude threats, such as drones, helicopters, and light aircraft.
The system also features a 12.7mm machine gun for close-range defense and can engage targets while on the move at speeds of up to 35 kilometers (21.7 miles) per hour.
In addition, the Avenger is equipped with advanced sensors, infrared cameras, and identification friend-or-foe tech for added precision.
African Lion 2025
African Lion 2025 is the largest annual military exercise on the continent, involving more than 10,000 troops from over 40 nations, including seven NATO allies.
Training spans Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia and runs through May 23, focusing on joint operations in austere, multi-domain environments.
“This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations — preparing forces to deploy, fight, and win,” said the US Army Southern European Task Force.
