For the third consecutive year, a team from the Military Operations Command has won the prestigious EQUATORIAL PATROL multinational challenge trophy in Gabon. This year’s event took place from 9 to 20 March 2026.

With eight (08) nations participating, this annual challenge brings together teams of eight personnel each. In addition to Gabon, which fielded four teams from the Armed Forces and the Republican Guard, teams from Benin, Burundi, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, France, Ghana and Chad also participated.

For about ten days, these teams competed in a series of physical and technical challenges, including an obstacle course, a mangrove course, close-quarters operational intervention techniques, survival, precision shooting, topography, and a team synthesis course.

Led by Sub-Lieutenant FONKWA EDMOND, the team was defending its double title this year and tackled all the challenges with strength, cohesion and determination, winning the tournament hands down.

This third victory enhances the reputation of the Defence Forces, being the result of iron discipline, hard work, and a commitment to excellence — qualities that are consistently fostered under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff.