Camp Lemonnier

Camp Lemonnier is a United States Naval Expeditionary Base located next to Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport in Djibouti City. It serves as the home for the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) of the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and is operated by U.S. Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central. The base was originally established for the French Foreign Legion and named after General Émile-René Lemonnier. In 2002, the base was leased by Djibouti to the United States, along with access to the neighboring airport and port facilities. It became operational in 2002.

Camp Lemonnier supports U.S. counter-terrorism operations, including those in Yemen and Somalia. The base has expanded significantly since its initial 88 acres, reaching nearly 500 acres. Physical improvements have included additional billeting and compliance with force protection requirements. In 2014, the U.S. and Djiboutian governments agreed to a 20-year lease extension. The airfield is shared with Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport, featuring a single asphalt runway, 09/27, measuring 3,150 meters. The base's elevation is 15 meters above mean sea level.

Key units stationed at Camp Lemonnier include the CJTF-HOA, the Special Operations Command and Control Element-Horn of Africa (SOCCE-HOA), U.S. Marine Security Forces, U.S. Navy Seabee battalions, and various U.S. Army units. Aviation units include the 449th Air Expeditionary Group, composed of the 81st and 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadrons, operating HC-130 aircraft. Additionally, the base hosts detachments of U.S. Marine heavy-lift helicopters (CH-53), MV-22 Ospreys, KC-130J Aerial Refueler Transports, U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidons, and various USAF aircraft such as HH-60G Pave Hawks, C-130J Hercules, and C-17 Globemaster IIIs. In 2013, drone operations were moved to Chabelley Airport. In 2025, the base was used for the temporary detention of deportees from the USA.