The Moroccan Royal Armed Forces (FAR) are bolstering their military ties with major world armies, including those of the US and France. As part of this effort, the FAR recently hosted the first planning meeting for the "African Lion 2027" exercise, which took place from September 21-25, 2026, at the Southern Zone Command headquarters in Agadir. Representatives from several countries, including Morocco and the US, participated in the meeting to enhance coordination and exchange experiences.
The African Lion 2027 exercise aims to strengthen interoperability and cooperation among participating forces, support operational readiness, and develop the capacity to conduct joint and integrated operations. The exercise is scheduled to take place from April 25 to May 7, 2027, in various locations across Morocco, including Agadir, Tan-Tan, Guelmim, Benguerir, Kénitra, and Dakhla. This year's edition will feature the integration of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, autonomous platforms, and advanced communication tools.
The US and Morocco have signed a protocol agreement to establish the African Multidomain Training and Experimentation Center (AMTEC), which will serve as a testing ground for future wireless and detection technologies. The center will enable the US and Morocco to develop and experiment with innovative solutions, enhancing their military capabilities and industrial growth. The African Lion exercise will demonstrate the feasibility of AMTEC, allowing industry partners to collaborate with military personnel and test cutting-edge technologies in operational environments.
In addition to its cooperation with the US, Morocco is also strengthening its military ties with France. The Royal Moroccan Navy and the French Navy are currently engaged in the Chebec 26 exercise, which involves training and cooperation activities in Toulon, France. The exercise includes simulator sessions, navigation and maneuvering drills, and firefighting and damage control training. A Moroccan Panther helicopter also trained with the French Navy's 36F flottila at the Hyères naval airbase.
The Chebec 26 exercise aims to enhance interoperability and coordination between the Moroccan and French navies, preparing them for future joint operations in the Mediterranean. The exercise began with a joint preparation phase at the Toulon naval base and the Hyères naval airbase, followed by a sea phase involving Moroccan and French frigates and helicopters. The exercise focuses on maritime security, cyber security, and the integration of advanced technologies.
The Moroccan FAR are committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation with partner armies through various military exercises on land, sea, and air. These exercises, including African Lion and Chebec, aim to enhance interoperability, operational readiness, and humanitarian response capabilities. The FAR's cooperation with major world armies reflects its growing role in regional and international security efforts.
The cooperation between Morocco, the US, and France demonstrates the FAR's commitment to modernizing its military capabilities and enhancing its partnerships with other nations. Through exercises like African Lion and Chebec, the FAR is developing its capacity to conduct joint and integrated operations, responding to emerging security challenges in the region. The Moroccan FAR's growing military cooperation with major world armies is expected to continue, with future exercises and partnerships aimed at promoting regional stability and security.
Key points
- Morocco's Royal Armed Forces (FAR) are strengthening military cooperation with the US and France through exercises like African Lion 27 and Chebec 26.
- The African Lion 2027 exercise aims to enhance interoperability and cooperation among participating forces, support operational readiness, and develop the capacity to conduct joint and integrated operations.
- The US and Morocco have signed a protocol agreement to establish the African Multidomain Training and Experimentation Center (AMTEC), which will serve as a testing ground for future wireless and detection technologies.
