فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
The Royal Armed Forces of Morocco are participating in the amphibious “UNITAS 2025” exercises that began on the East Coast of the United States and will continue until October 6, with the participation of 26 countries from various continents. Morocco stands out as the sole African and Arab nation taking part in this edition.
The participating military units launched operations from Mayport Naval Base in Florida, with activities continuing at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina and Norfolk in Virginia. The drills include amphibious assaults, live-fire exercises, and combat training in urban environments.
This year’s edition is distinguished by the first-ever use of unmanned maritime systems (naval drones) in field scenarios, aiming to test the integration of traditional assets with modern technology, within the framework of building hybrid fleets capable of addressing complex maritime challenges.
Morocco will join alongside U.S. and multinational forces for advanced training demonstrations covering close air support, urban warfare, as well as diving and rescue exercises, enhancing the Moroccan forces’ readiness to operate in a variety of operational environments.
According to the U.S. Navy, the exercises involve approximately 8,000 troops, dozens of naval vessels, submarines, and fighter aircraft, as well as seminars on military medicine and cyber defense. Originating in 1959 with nine countries, UNITAS has become the oldest and largest multinational naval exercise in the world.
Rear Admiral Carlos Sardiello, commander of the U.S. Navy’s Fourth Fleet and Naval Forces South, emphasized that “UNITAS 2025” represents a strategic opportunity to demonstrate partner cohesion in facing shared threats and to strengthen military cooperation and trust.
Morocco’s participation aligns with its strategy to develop naval capabilities, both by acquiring modern equipment and integrating operational experiences alongside leading militaries, enhancing its position as a key player in regional and international maritime security.
The exercises are expected to conclude on October 6 with official ceremonies marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Navy, attended by senior military leaders from participating countries, including Morocco.
These maneuvers highlight Morocco’s advanced level of international military cooperation and underscore the kingdom’s commitment to actively contributing to global maritime security.
