Historic Collaboration in the Skies
In a significant milestone for military cooperation, four Moroccan F-16 fighter jets have commenced joint training with French Rafale aircraft at the Orange-Caritat Air Base 115 in France as part of the ORYX 2026 air exercise. This marks the first occasion that Moroccan aircraft have participated in training exercises alongside French Rafales at this prestigious base. The French Air and Space Force officially announced the commencement of the exercise, which is taking place from September 23 to October 2, 2026. This collaborative endeavor involves not only aircrews but also mechanics and air traffic controllers from both nations, underscoring a unified effort to enhance operational capabilities.
The French Air and Space Force stated, "For the first time, four Moroccan F-16s have joined the Rafale aircraft of the 5th Fighter Wing for joint training. From September 23 to October 2, crews, mechanics, and controllers from both air forces are strengthening their interoperability, both in the air and on the ground." This statement highlights the commitment of both nations to improve their collaborative performance in diverse operational environments.
Strengthening Military Ties Through Joint Exercises
The Moroccan F-16s are engaged in comprehensive training exercises with Rafale jets from France’s 5th Fighter Wing, which operates from the Orange-Caritat Air Base. The primary focus of this exercise is to foster joint training and enhance the operational capacity of both air forces to function seamlessly together. This current exercise builds upon the foundation of military cooperation established in prior exercises, such as the Marathon 25, which took place in Morocco during June and July 2025. The Marathon 25 exercise similarly concentrated on improving interoperability and the exchange of air tactics and procedures.
This latest air exercise is a testament to the growing military collaboration between Morocco and France, which is not limited to air operations. Just days prior, the two nations launched the 33rd edition of the bilateral CHEBEC 26 naval exercise in Toulon, commencing on September 14. This naval exercise brings together the Royal Moroccan Navy and the French Navy for joint maritime training, focusing on critical areas such as maritime safety, operational coordination, and interoperability. The exercises include training at the Toulon naval base before transitioning to maritime operations in the Mediterranean, incorporating advanced training techniques such as navigation and maneuvering simulators, firefighting, and damage-control drills.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
