African Lion 2025: Morocco’s FAR Finalizes Preparations in Agadir from February 24–28
The final planning meeting for "African Lion 2025," a multinational military exercise organized by Morocco and the U.S., is taking place in Agadir from February 24 to 28, 2025. The exercise, scheduled for May 12-23, will enhance military cooperation, interoperability, and regional security while incorporating humanitarian initiatives to support local communities.
hassan benyoub 
Agadir, Morocco – February 27, 2025 – The Southern Zone Command Headquarters in Agadir is hosting the final planning meeting for the 21st edition of the "African Lion 2025" exercise from February 24 to 28, 2025. Organized by Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces (FAR) in collaboration with the United States Armed Forces, this key event brings together representatives from both nations and several partner countries to finalize arrangements for the multinational military exercise scheduled for May 12–23, 2025.
Final Planning Underway
According to a statement from the FAR General Staff, the Agadir meeting is designed to lock in the last details of African Lion 2025, which will span multiple Moroccan regions, including Agadir, Tan-Tan, Tiznit, Kenitra, Benguerir, and Tifnit. The exercise aims to strengthen military cooperation between Morocco and the U.S., enhance interoperability, and boost operational capabilities within a multinational framework, contributing to regional security, peace, and stability.
Comprehensive Exercise Components
African Lion 2025 will feature a diverse range of activities:
- Operational Training: Covering various domains—likely land, air, and possibly naval operations—to provide hands-on experience in real-world scenarios.
- Planning Exercises: Strategic sessions for participating officers to sharpen command-and-control skills in a multinational setting.
- CBRN Decontamination Training: Focused on nuclear, radiological, biological, and chemical (CBRN) threats, preparing forces for modern, non-conventional challenges.
- Joint Maneuvers: Large-scale exercises involving coordinated tactics, deployments, and communication among forces from different nations.
- Humanitarian and Social Initiatives: Parallel efforts such as medical missions and infrastructure development to support local communities and foster goodwill.
Strategic Significance
Launched in 2005, African Lion is a flagship joint exercise under the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), reinforcing Morocco’s role as a key ally in countering terrorism and promoting stability in Africa. The 2025 edition, spanning Morocco’s diverse regions, underscores its geographic and strategic importance at the crossroads of Europe and Africa. Beyond military goals, the inclusion of humanitarian activities highlights a broader mission to support local populations and enhance regional resilience.
Looking Ahead
As the final planning meeting concludes in Agadir, attention shifts to the main event in May. Spanning cities from the coastal hub of Agadir to the southern reaches of Tan-Tan and Tifnit, African Lion 2025 promises to deepen military ties, improve readiness, and contribute to Morocco’s security framework. The success of this exercise will hinge on seamless coordination and the commitment of all participating nations, with potential benefits extending to both military preparedness and community development.
