United States–Niger Military Partnership

Once regarded as the linchpin of U.S. counterterrorism efforts in West Africa, Niger’s military partnership with the U.S. rapidly unraveled following the 2023 coup that ousted its pro-Western government. For years, the U.S. had invested heavily in Niger’s security forces, operating Air Base 201 in Agadez for surveillance drone missions against ISIS and al-Qaeda affiliates in the Sahel. However, as Niger’s new military rulers pivot toward Russia, the U.S. has begun a drawdown of its forces, marking an uncertain future for its counterterrorism footprint in the region.

History

• Post-9/11 Counterterrorism Efforts (2000s–2010s): The U.S. increased military aid to Niger as part of the Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership (TSCTP).
• Expansion of U.S. Military Presence (2013–2022): The U.S. built Air Base 101 in Niamey and Air Base 201 in Agadez, supporting intelligence and drone operations. Niger became one of the largest recipients of U.S. security assistance in Africa.
• Political Instability & U.S. Troop Withdrawal (2023–2024): Following Niger’s 2023 coup, U.S. operations were reassessed, and troop withdrawals began in 2024.

Key Characteristics

• U.S. Drone Bases & Military Facilities: Air Base 201 (Agadez): A hub for MQ-9 Reaper drones conducting surveillance and counterterrorism strikes.Air Base 101 (Niamey): Supported special operations and training missions.
• Counterterrorism & Security Cooperation: U.S. forces trained Nigerien special forces to combat ISIS-Sahel and Boko Haram. The partnership focused on border security, reconnaissance, and rapid response operations.
• Defense Aid & Equipment Transfers: The U.S. provided Niger with armored vehicles, drones, and counterinsurgency training. Joint operations with French and regional forces strengthened Niger’s security forces.

Strategic Importance

• Sahel Counterterrorism Operations: Niger was a critical base for U.S. and allied forces combating jihadist insurgencies.
• Monitoring Extremist Groups: U.S. drone operations helped track and disrupt terrorist movements across the Sahel.
• Regional Instability & Future Uncertainty: Following the 2023 coup, U.S.-Niger relations have deteriorated, leading to troop reductions and diplomatic challenges.

Links

• U.S. Military Presence in Niger
• Air Base 201 & Counterterrorism Operations
• Niger Coup & U.S. Policy Shift