Military Cooperation : France helps Strengthen the Operational Capacities of the Special Amphibious Battalion in Tiko, Fako V=Division, South-West Region

Publish On : 27 July 2026

Military cooperation between the Republic of Cameroon and the French Republic reached a significant new milestone with the official handover of a major consignment of nautical and technological equipment to the Special Amphibious Battalion (BSA).

The ceremony, held at the operational base in Tiko, Fako Division, South-West Region, was chaired by Navy Captain NKOTTO Petit Paul Orélien, Commander of Military Sector No. 10, personal representative of the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence (MINDEF), Mr. Joseph BETI ASSOMO. The event took place in the presence of the Defence Attaché to the French Embassy in Cameroon, along with numerous civilian and military authorities from both nations.

The event commenced with the military welcoming ceremony and honors rendered to the Commander of Military Sector No. 10, followed by a gathering of officers and dignitaries in the Operations Room.

In his opening remarks, Navy Captain NKOTTO Petit Paul Orélien commended the excellence and strength of bilateral relations between Yaoundé and Paris. He seized the opportunity to recall the historic trajectory of the BSA—originally established in 1997 as the Special Army Unit ( USAT) before becoming the Special Amphibious Battalion by presidential decree in 1999—an elite unit that is itself a product of this fruitful cooperation.

For his part, the French Defence Attaché reiterated France’s firm commitment to continuing its support for the Cameroonian Defence Forces in enhancing their tactical, logistical, and operational capabilities.

The official signing and exchange of transfer documents cover top-tier capacity building support, notably including 9 modern secured pirogues/boats, complete with trailers, fittings, accessories, and spare parts; 18 high-powered outboard engines and 8 tactical reconnaissance drones.

This major contribution of equipment aims to boost the BSA’s mobility across waterways, strengthen the surveillance of riverine and maritime areas, support the Defence and Security Forces in their coastal interception missions, and facilitate Civil-Military Actions for the benefit of populations living in remote areas.

While handing over the equipment, the Commander of Military Sector No. 10 urged the Commander of the BSA to ensure rigorous and optimal use of these assets. He also conveyed the heartfelt appreciation of the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence to the French side for this gesture of active solidarity.

The ceremony concluded with the traditional group photo and a friendly cocktail reception hosted by MINDEF, reflecting the atmosphere of fraternity and mutual trust prevailing between both parties.