Morocco Participates in 'Phoenix Express 24' maritime exercise

The Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, through its naval forces, are participating in the “PHOENIX EXPRESS 24” exercise hosted by Tunisia, in collaboration with U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), from November 4 to 15. Over 1,100 military personnel and observers from the five Maghreb countries, along with the United States, Italy, Turkey, Malta, Belgium, Georgia, and Senegal, are involved, as reported by the Tunisian Ministry of National Defense.

The exercise, conducted off the northern coast of Tunisia, features nine military vessels and aims to enhance cooperation and coordination among naval crews. It focuses on training personnel to improve their skills in utilizing maritime systems and equipment and addressing illegal activities at sea, including smuggling and human trafficking, to ensure the security and stability of the Mediterranean.

In addition to the practical training, theoretical lessons and workshops will be organized on various maritime topics, such as vessel boarding and inspection, diving techniques, maritime intelligence, and countering biological and chemical threats.

Strategic Implications

Military expert Abdel Rahman Mkaoui explained that Morocco’s participation in this military exercise reflects its commitment to enhancing its naval readiness to tackle various security challenges in the Mediterranean, especially the increasing waves of irregular migration originating primarily from Tunisia, Algeria, and Libya, as well as activities by human trafficking and drug smuggling networks.

Mkaoui noted that these security threats have become a significant concern for the U.S. military and European nations, which is why Morocco’s involvement is critical. As an influential player in regional security dynamics, Morocco has extensive experience, having participated in numerous naval exercises such as “CHERBOURG” with France and the “PASSEX” training with the Spanish navy.

He also highlighted that the U.S. is increasingly wary of Russian expansion in Africa, particularly through the Wagner Group, which explains the participation of countries like Georgia in the exercise, alongside attempts by China and Iran to extend their influence in the region.

Commitment to Regional Cooperation

Hicham Moataz, a researcher in strategic affairs, emphasized that Morocco’s participation in this multinational maritime exercise is part of its commitment to strengthening military and security cooperation with neighboring countries, particularly those facing similar security challenges in the Mediterranean basin. He noted that the exercise reflects Morocco’s openness to collaborative efforts with Maghreb countries like Mauritania and Libya, as well as with key Western powers involved in regional security, such as the U.S. and Belgium.

Moataz pointed out that Morocco’s geographic position makes it a vital partner in combating threats to North African coasts, seeking to reinforce its role as a responsible regional player against organized crime and smuggling activities that threaten Mediterranean stability. By participating in this exercise, Morocco aims to enhance its naval capabilities and develop its skills through joint training, showcasing its strategy to bolster national defense in a cooperative environment with partners experienced in military operations.

Regional Security and Economic Dimensions

The importance of regional coordination cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in addressing the increasing security challenges in the Mediterranean, which has seen a rise in illegal activities, including smuggling, irregular migration, and maritime terrorism. Such exercises represent a strategic step towards building sustainable cooperation mechanisms among regional states to tackle these threats.

Moreover, beyond the security implications, regional coordination also has economic and strategic dimensions, given that the Mediterranean is a key corridor for energy and goods. Ensuring security in these waters directly impacts the economies of neighboring countries, underscoring the collective role of participating nations in safeguarding this vital passage, thereby positively influencing regional economic stability and ensuring safe international trade flows.

In conclusion, Morocco’s engagement in the “PHOENIX EXPRESS 24” exercise demonstrates its awareness of the necessity to confront security challenges threatening the region and affirms its status as a reliable partner committed to collaborative efforts to maintain security and stability in the Mediterranean. This involvement enhances Morocco’s international image as a responsible nation striving for security within the framework of international legitimacy while paving the way for further partnerships that serve shared security interests.