The AES Unified Force, composed of 6,000 troops from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, aims to enhance military cooperation and operational effectiveness in tackling jihadist violence in the Sahel region. Launched in December 2025 and headquartered in Niamey, Niger, this force represents a renewed attempt by central Sahel states to establish a joint security framework, having learned from previous experiences such as the G5 Sahel Joint Force and the Multinational Joint Task Force, both of which faced significant operational hurdles.

The backdrop of political instability in the region significantly affects the AES Unified Force's prospects, given that the leaders of the three participating countries have come to power through military coups and have distanced themselves from international alliances like the G5 Sahel, which they viewed as ineffective and overly influenced by external powers. The earlier G5 Sahel Joint Force struggled primarily because of internal disputes and loss of participation from key member states, leading to its eventual dissolution in 2022-3.

For the AES Unified Force to succeed, it requires not only effective military strategy but also the rebuilding of relationships with neighboring states and international partners. The force’s potential effectiveness will be closely watched as it navigates the complex political landscape and attempts to mitigate the growing threat of jihadist activities across their borders, with broader implications for regional security and stability in West Africa.