COBRA Armored Vehicles in Gambian Army’s KANSALA 2024
**The Gambian Army’s COBRA armored vehicles took center stage during the recent KANSALA 2024 military exercise, showcasing their capabilities and readiness. Held on December 23, 2024, in Kanilai, located in the Foni Kansala Region, this high-profile event marked the conclusion of the exercise. Footage released from the event highlighted the advanced capabilities of the COBRA armored vehicles, which were produced by Turkish defense manufacturer OTOKAR. In a significant gesture of support, Turkey donated two of these vehicles to The Gambia in 2023, enhancing the army’s operational capacity.**
The KANSALA 2024 exercise involved an impressive deployment of 700 soldiers at the Sibanor base, where various military scenarios were practiced. Troops engaged in essential tasks such as patrol duties, search-and-contact drills, and assaults on simulated enemy positions. Beyond military training, the exercise also included health screenings and humanitarian aid activities aimed at fostering goodwill with the local community, reflecting a commitment to civil-military cooperation.
VIP Day concluded the exercise with a series of demonstrations showcasing the military’s capabilities. Attendees, including government ministers, security officials, and local residents, witnessed firsthand the effectiveness of the Gambian Armed Forces. The event highlighted the military’s readiness to respond to threats and its dedication to community engagement.
One of the standout moments was the Gambian Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team’s swift and effective response to an improvised explosive device (IED) detected during patrols. Their professionalism ensured the safe disposal of the threat, demonstrating the army’s training and operational readiness. Following this, units executed an assault operation employing ‘Urban Warfare’ tactics, successfully neutralizing enemy forces and clearing the area, which received enthusiastic applause from the audience.
In addition to traditional military maneuvers, the exercise featured unarmed combat demonstrations involving both the Gambian Army and the Police Intervention Unit (PIU). Special attention was also drawn to the recent delivery of HIZIR armored vehicles, which further bolster the army’s capabilities. Overall, KANSALA 2024 not only reinforced the Gambian military’s operational skills but also strengthened its ties with the local population.
