Moroccan navy takes part in large-scale U.S.-led naval drills

Morocco is taking part in the multinational naval exercise Fleet Exercise 2025 (FLEETEX 25), which began at Naval Station Norfolk in the U.S. state of Virginia alongside several partner and allied nations, including Spain, France, Germany, Mexico and Côte d’Ivoire, according to a statement from the U.S. Navy.

Around 17 ships from participating countries gathered at Naval Station Norfolk, where the opening ceremony was held aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima. The large-scale exercise is designed to strengthen interoperability among allied navies and test combat readiness in a complex, multi-domain operational environment.

According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the drills bring together 31 warships, multinational aircraft and their crews for a series of maritime operations, including air defense, anti-submarine warfare and amphibious assault exercises.

The exercise is being conducted in two phases. The first runs through June 21 at Naval Station Norfolk, while the second will see participating forces deploy at sea for advanced training operations, culminating in a large-scale maritime assault simulation.

The drills coincide with several major events in the region, including the 50th edition of Norfolk Harborfest, Virginia SAIL 250 and Norfolk Fleet Week. These celebrations feature public tours of military and sailing vessels, maritime demonstrations and opportunities for visitors to meet sailors from around the world.

Following the exercise, some participating units, including the Moroccan contingent, are expected to travel to New York to take part in the International Naval Review 250, scheduled for July 3–8.