Senegal and France have formalized a new defence framework focused on maritime security, marking a significant shift in their bilateral military relationship.
The two nations signed a letter of intent in July 2025, establishing cooperation on naval access and security operations without the establishment of permanent French military bases in Senegal.
This development follows France’s completed withdrawal from its long-standing permanent installations in the country, ending more than six decades of continuous physical military presence.
The restructuring of the partnership reflects broader changes in French military posture across West Africa, where Paris is moving away from permanent garrisons toward flexible, access-based agreements.
By prioritizing naval capabilities, the new framework targets security challenges along the Atlantic coast, a critical corridor for regional trade and energy transport.
The absence of permanent bases reduces the political friction often associated with foreign military footprints while maintaining operational cooperation.