31 warships. 19 nations. One Atlantic mission. Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces are participating in FleetEx 250, a large-scale multinational naval drill launched from Norfolk, Virginia — the latest milestone in a deepening decade-long defence partnership with the United States.
Morocco is among 19 nations taking part in FleetEx 250, a major multinational naval exercise that launched on June 16 from Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia. The exercise brings together 31 warships, aircraft, and various military units under the command of the US Second Fleet, with the goal of developing coordination capabilities, joint operations, and strengthening security and stability in the Atlantic.
Representatives of the participating countries arrived at the naval base on June 14 and 15 for pre-exercise preparations. Alongside Morocco, the participating nations are Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Denmark, France, Germany, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Peru, Senegal, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
“Training and operating as an integrated team sharpens our competitive edge and demonstrates our shared commitment to maritime security and stability in the Atlantic.”. — Vice Admiral Doug Perry, Commander, US Second Fleet
Two phases, one objective
The exercise runs in two main phases. The first, from June 16 to 21, covers final preparations, coordination meetings, and the alignment of operational plans among participating forces — all conducted within Naval Station Norfolk. The second phase moves to sea from June 22 to 29, with advanced training in naval air defence, anti-submarine warfare, and amphibious operations, alongside field scenarios simulating engagement with a notional adversary to test force readiness and the ability to operate as a unified team.
A broader strategic picture
Morocco’s participation in FleetEx 250 comes just weeks after the conclusion of African Lion 2026 — the largest annual military exercise on the African continent — which Morocco hosted in part from April 20 to May 8, with more than 5,600 military personnel from over 40 countries taking part.
It also coincides with the strengthening of the Rabat-Washington defence partnership, following the signing of a new 10-year military cooperation roadmap covering 2026 to 2036, concluded during the 14th session of the Morocco-US Defence Advisory Committee held at the Pentagon on April 15.
Following the Norfolk phase, several participating units are expected to sail to New York City for the Naval Review 250 international maritime parade, scheduled from July 3 to 8 to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence.