Morocco and the United States have stepped up military cooperation with joint combat training and a high-profile bomber flyover during African Lion 26 in Cap Draa. The drills included Morocco’s first nationally accredited JTAC course alongside US B-52H Stratofortress bombers and Royal Moroccan Air Force F-16s.
The exercise is part of African Lion 26, the largest annual US Africa Command-led operation, running from 20 April to 8 May. It brings together multinational forces to test coordination across air, land and sea.
A key feature this year is Morocco’s launch of its first Joint Terminal Attack Controller qualification course. The programme trains soldiers to direct air strikes, artillery and naval fire from forward positions, acting as the final control point for targeting decisions on the ground.
The role is designed to improve precision in combat and reduce the risk of friendly fire or civilian harm. US trainers and partner forces from Canada and Hungary are supporting the course, alongside personnel from the 165th Air Support Operations Squadron.
The aerial component of the exercise included two B-52H Stratofortress bombers flying alongside four F-16 Fighting Falcon jets operated by Morocco. The coordinated flight over Cap Draa was used to demonstrate joint operational capability.
US officials said the visible integration of strategic bombers and fighter jets sends a signal of readiness and deterrence in a region facing growing security pressures.
The exercise comes at a time of instability across parts of North Africa and the Sahel, where armed groups and cross-border threats continue to challenge regional security.
US Air Force Gen. Dagvin Anderson said: “The presence of these assets reinforces commitment to regional security and provides a credible deterrent against potential threats.”
US Air Force Master Sgt. Therron Bundick said: “The training environment is strengthened by experts from the 165th Air Support Operations Squadron and international partners from Canada and Hungary. This inaugural programme builds a lasting foundation for the country’s military future.”
Beyond combat training, African Lion 26 also includes logistics drills and coordination exercises aimed at improving how quickly forces can move equipment across the region. Humanitarian and support scenarios are also part of the programme.
