China, Russia, Terrorist Networks Destabilizing Africa

Africa, strategically positioned between the Atlantic Ocean and Indo-Pacific region, is increasingly at the convergence of great-power rivalry and terrorism, said Air Force Lt. Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson, during a nomination hearing before the Senate Committee on Armed Services today.

Anderson is being considered for promotion to general and commander of U.S. Africa Command.

"China is expanding its approach from a focus on economic influence to greater military and information operations. Russia's actions are frequently destabilizing and run counter to U.S. interests. Terrorist networks continue to exploit ungoverned spaces, posing a direct threat to our safety and security," he said.

The general stated that China is investing in ports globally, adding, "I think it should be concerning to us, not only that they could potentially use those as dual-use military ports, but what access can they deny U.S. forces or U.S. commerce as necessary in time of conflict."

Anderson noted that it would be especially concerning to national security if Chinese ports were opened on the Atlantic side of Africa, and it's critical that the United States understands the national security vulnerabilities that this development may pose.

China is also expanding its information operations and communist propaganda across the African continent, he said, and they are increasing their military-to-military engagement, which Anderson described as "troubling."

The United States can engage in the information domain to highlight some of these malign activities, he said, adding that small American investments in Africa will produce great returns. For example, the State Partnership Program can create long-term relationships, he said.

Navy Vice Adm. Frank M. Bradley, who testified to be promoted to admiral and become commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, said that on a strategic landscape where adversaries and competitors challenge the rules-based international order, Socom provides the agility, precision and nuance needed to confront and disrupt these threats and competition.

"Should the need arise, we are also ready to integrate into the joint force to respond to crisis and engage in high-end conflict, where the precise delivery of violence will be critical to shaping success on the battlefield," the admiral said.