The General Command of the Somaliland Armed Forces launched a large-scale military exercise on Wednesday, dubbed “HEEGAN 2026,” aimed at strengthening the military’s combat capabilities and operational readiness.
The exercise was inaugurated by the Commander of the Somaliland Armed Forces, Brigadier General Nimcaan Yuusuf Gaaxnuug, and involves the participation of various units from across the military.
According to a press release from the General Command, the exercise will continue over the coming weeks and will include military training and the testing of weaponry—such as artillery, tanks, armored vehicles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). The Command stated that the objective of the exercise is to enhance troop readiness, improve the quality of training, foster coordination among different units, and evaluate their capacity to execute joint operations.
It was further noted that “HEEGAN 2026” has been established as an annual training program, to be conducted regularly to refine the skills of the troops and align them with modern combat techniques and strategies. Meanwhile, the General Command of the Military has issued a warning to the residents of Benderwanaag and surrounding areas where training is taking place, advising that the sounds of gunfire and artillery will be heard, and that there will be military movements during the training period.
The Command has urged local residents—particularly pastoralists and those living in rural areas—to stay away from the designated training and live-fire zones, and to ensure that neither people nor livestock enter these areas. It further stated that warning signs will be posted and security measures implemented to safeguard civilians, livestock, and property throughout the duration of the training.
