Morocco and UK deepen military cooperation to strengthen regional security

Morocco and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral military cooperation, underscoring their shared objective of strengthening regional security and improving the operational readiness of their armed forces.

The renewed commitment was highlighted during a meeting in Rabat between Abdeltif Loudyi, Morocco’s Minister Delegate in charge of the National Defense Administration, and Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren OBE, the United Kingdom’s Senior Military Adviser for the Middle East and North Africa. The meeting was held in accordance with the High Instructions of King Mohammed VI and focused on reviewing the progress of defense cooperation between the two countries.

Military cooperation was at the center of the discussions, with both officials assessing ongoing training programs and future opportunities to enhance collaboration. The talks reflected the growing strategic partnership between Rabat and London as both countries seek to address evolving regional security challenges through closer defense coordination.

Loudyi highlighted Morocco’s efforts and initiatives aimed at promoting peace and stability across the region. He reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting collective security and strengthening partnerships with allied nations.

Vice Admiral Ahlgren praised the leadership of King Mohammed VI and described Morocco as a key actor in maintaining peace and stability, particularly across the Middle East and North Africa. His remarks reflected the UK’s recognition of Morocco’s expanding role as a regional security partner.

The two countries continue to reinforce military interoperability through regular exchanges of senior officials, specialized training programs, and joint exercises. Among the most notable initiatives is the Jbel Sahara exercise, conducted in October 2025 by Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces and the British Army at the Ramram military zone near Marrakech. The exercise was designed to improve coordination and operational compatibility between both militaries.

Morocco has also expanded its defense cooperation with other international partners. The Kingdom regularly conducts military exercises with the United States and France as part of broader security partnerships.

In 2025, France welcomed the Chergui military maneuver carried out with Morocco, describing it as an illustration of the strength of Franco-Moroccan military cooperation. The exercise involved personnel from the French Army’s 5th Combat Helicopter Regiment alongside elements of the airmobile brigade command.

Morocco also hosts African Lion, the largest annual multinational military exercise on the African continent. Organized in partnership with the United States, the exercise brings together armed forces from numerous countries and serves as a platform to strengthen interoperability, crisis response capabilities, and regional defense cooperation.