44 States, over 8,000 fighters participate in Egypt-US 'BRIGHT STAR' Exercise

CAIRO – 28 August 2025: A total of 44 countries is set to take part in the 19th edition of the Egypt-United States “BRIGHT STAR” joint military exercise, set to unfold at Mohamed Naguib Military Base in the northern Matrouh governorate from August 28 to September 10.

Of these, 14 nations will take part as active participants, deploying more than 8,000 troops, while 30 other countries will join as observers, said a video statement posted by the Egyptian Armed Forces’ spokesman on Thursday.

As part of the final preparations for the launch of BRIGHT STAR, one of the largest joint military drills in the world, recent days have seen the arrival of most participating forces through various entry points, said the statement.

Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa, alongside several army commanders, inspected the final preparations for hosting the joint exercise.

He praised the efforts of those involved in organizing the exercise to ensure that this edition would be exceptional on all levels.

Khalifa emphasized the importance of redoubling efforts and maximizing the use of available capabilities and resources to achieve the desired outcomes.

He stressed that the exercise should align with the honorable stature of the Egyptian Armed Forces, which continue to earn the trust and respect of their counterparts regionally and internationally.