Washington, DC – In a display of the deep military alliance between Washington and Rabat, the 22nd edition of the African Lion 2026 (AL26) exercises, the largest joint military exercise on the African continent, commenced in Morocco. Forces from more than 40 countries and NATO partners are participating in the exercises. This year’s edition underscores the shared commitment to regional security and the development of defense capabilities to address evolving challenges.
Masad Boulos: The Power of Partnership and Collective Readiness
U.S. Special Envoy for African and Arab Affairs, Massad Boulos, affirmed that the African Lion exercise continues to demonstrate the strength of U.S. partnerships across the continent, emphasizing that the maneuvers reflect a commitment to security and readiness.
Boulos explained via the X platform that the exercise includes intensive training in Morocco, Ghana, Senegal, and Tunisia. Its aim is to enhance the collective ability to respond to crises.
He added, “This year’s exercise showcases cutting-edge U.S. technology at the forefront, enhancing our partners’ readiness to confront evolving threats and support long-term stability.”
US Defense Secretary: Morocco is an unparalleled partner
For his part, US Secretary of Defense Pete Higseth, speaking via videoconference at a ceremony at the Southern Command headquarters in Agadir, emphasized that “there is no better partner” than the Kingdom of Morocco to host these exercises.
Higgseth noted that “African Lion” is not merely a traditional exercise, but rather “a laboratory for innovation.” It incorporates artificial intelligence, robotics, and next-generation digital technologies within multi-domain operational scenarios. He delivered a firm message, stating: “Our shared resolve is unwavering, and we are prepared to defend our interests against anyone who seeks to destabilize the continent.”
Morocco: Envisioning the Challenges of the Future
In a related context, Lieutenant General Mohamed Berriz, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces and Commander of the Southern Zone, affirmed Morocco’s commitment to building upon past achievements to ensure the continued relevance of the exercises as a dynamic framework for strengthening readiness across the African, Mediterranean, and Atlantic regions.
Berriz revealed that the 2027 edition will hold exceptional symbolic significance, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Morocco and the United States. This underscores the enduring strength of the historical ties between the two nations.
AFRICOM’s message to the world
For his part, General Dagvin Anderson, commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), described the exercise as a unified force determined to transform the promises of security and prosperity in Africa into tangible reality.
This year’s maneuvers focus primarily on enhancing interoperability among participating militaries and eliminating safe havens for terrorist groups. They also emphasize preempting adversaries through innovative technological and combat solutions, placing “African Lion” at the forefront of international security strategy in the region.
