Lt. Gen. Ahmed Khalifa, Chief of Staff of the Egyptian Armed Forces, left, speaks with military personnel from friendly and partner nations participating in the BRIGHT STAR 25 Exercise at Mohamed Naguib Military Base, Aug. 26, 2025. BRIGHT STAR 25 enhances joint readiness and reinforces partner nations’ ability to integrate seamlessly in complex operational environments. By aligning tactics, techniques and procedures, U.S. and partner forces increase their capacity to deter aggression, improving lethality, confidence, and cohesion among multinational service members. (Courtesy photo Department of Morale Affairs, Egyptian Armed Forces – Caption writer, U.S. Central Command Maged Benjamin-Elias)