The Royal Armed Forces (FAR) of Morocco and the U.S. Armed Forces are co-hosting the 20th edition of the African Lion exercise, which started yesterday and will last until May 31.
An opening ceremony at the South Zone Headquarters in Agadir launched the event on Monday, May 20, 2024. Representatives from over 20 participating countries, including NATO, attended. Major General Mohammed Benlouali (Morocco) and Major General Todd Wasmund (US) co-chaired the ceremony, which outlined the exercise scenario and activities.
Nearly 7,000 troops from participating nations will train alongside Moroccan and American forces. The exercise includes various drills: combined land, sea, and air maneuvers, special forces operations, airborne deployments, and staff planning exercises.
Morocco's General Benlouali highlighted the 20-year partnership between Morocco and the US, emphasizing their shared commitment to peace and security. He praised the strong bond and desire to expand this military cooperation.
US General Wasmund reaffirmed Morocco's role as the permanent host of African Lion and expressed gratitude for their enduring partnership.
