In a significant demonstration of military collaboration, twelve Moroccan pilots, accompanied by their mechanics, are currently participating in a training exercise with French Rafale fighters at the Orange Air Base. This exercise, designed to simulate air and ground threats, aims to enhance the coordination between the two forces, ultimately preparing them for joint missions in the future.
On October 1st, two Rafale jets from the 1/5 Vendée squadron took off from BA 115, followed closely by two Moroccan F-16s. Just two hours prior to the takeoff, the crews reviewed their mission objectives and the weather conditions, as detailed by Le Dauphiné Libéré in a report published on October 2nd, marking the last day of the exercise.
The Moroccan contingent comprises around fifty personnel, and according to reports, this is the first time such a sizable group has been deployed to France for this bilateral training initiative. The pilots and technical teams are operating from Orange, collaborating closely with the French Air and Space Force.
The training process commences with radio communication exchanges, transitioning into the implementation of tactics and procedures. Each mission is meticulously prepared and subsequently debriefed collectively. Lieutenant Colonel Jérémy, commander of the 5th Fighter Wing and director of the exercise, emphasizes the importance of fostering familiarity and trust among the crews, which is crucial for effective coordination during flight. Lieutenant Colonel Kévin, who has actively participated in the missions, succinctly sums up this professional camaraderie by stating, "among fighter pilots, we easily understand each other."
Aerial and Surface-to-Air Threat Scenarios
The flights are part of an air defense exercise featuring generic threat scenarios. The complexity of these scenarios arises from the interplay of air-to-air and surface-to-air risks, compounded by the challenging weather conditions encountered throughout the week. Against the backdrop of rising tensions, the training is particularly relevant. The commander of the 5th Wing explains that this exercise is geared towards preparing for high-intensity operations. Therefore, the scenarios are designed to present the crews with more demanding situations, compelling them to adapt their responses collaboratively.
This deployment follows the previous Marathon 25 maneuvers organized in Morocco, which saw five Rafale B jets and an A330 MRTT from France visiting the kingdom to operate alongside Moroccan F-16s. That program included training in weaponry, aerial refueling, and tactical coordination.
The Orange exercise continues this cooperative effort on French soil after the deployment of Moroccan aircraft and personnel. Bladi.net had previously detailed the logistical support provided by two C-130H aircraft, which were tasked with transporting the teams, spare parts, and necessary equipment to Orange-Caritat.
Future Collaborations on the Horizon
Both the Moroccan and French armed forces express a desire to maintain and expand these exchanges. General Alexis Rougier, chief of staff of the Air Defense Command and Air Operations, has outlined a long-term goal of executing joint missions. Plans are already underway for a new exercise that could see French pilots training in Morocco in 2027.
As reported by bladi.net.
