On August 17, 2026, a significant milestone was achieved in the realm of military cooperation and technological advancement between Morocco and the United States, as the first live-fire demonstration of the **AMTEC** (Multidomain Training and Experimentation Center of Africa) took place in Morocco. This event showcased a cost-effective, long-range cruise missile system, highlighting how **AFRICOM** and Morocco swiftly align operational needs with technological innovation. While the unveiling of the Anthem missile is noteworthy, the establishment of this new testing and exercise center within the African nation marks a pivotal step in strengthening the partnership between the two countries.

Located in **Tan-Tan**, which lies in the southwestern region of Morocco, this complex is designed to serve multiple missions, including the testing of new systems and technologies. Its establishment underscores the strategic importance that Washington places on its relationship with Rabat. According to the Moroccan military, this live demonstration has reinforced Morocco's role as a regional security benchmark.

For Morocco, this relationship is immensely relevant, especially since the United States is not only a crucial player on the international stage but also the principal supplier of its arms, contributing to approximately 60% of military procurement. Colonel **Zouhair El Hamdani**, who coordinated the event from August 3 to 7, summarized the vision for AMTEC, stating that it aims to become a regional hub for innovation, strategic cooperation, and industrial development. Furthermore, he emphasized that the first live-fire demonstration represents a significant milestone in realizing this vision.

The AMTEC facility is projected to evolve into a military testing ground for the United States and its allies, including the host nation, as well as for defense firms and startups, thereby shortening production, testing, and operational timelines. The construction of AMTEC is expected to be completed before 2030 and will feature three major components: a Multidomain Training Area (MDTA), an Innovation and Experimentation Center, and a Drone Academy.

This initiative follows a July agreement in Stuttgart between U.S. General **Dagvin Anderson** and Moroccan Royal Armed Forces Inspector General Lieutenant General **Mohamed Berrid**. This agreement, which outlines a ten-year bilateral defense cooperation roadmap, succeeds a previous understanding established in 2020. General Anderson, who has commanded AFRICOM for the past year, noted that the Tan-Tan center not only enhances security cooperation but also fosters innovation, illustrating how trust-based partnerships can effectively address shared security challenges.

The collaboration with Morocco provides a crucial framework that accelerates the readiness of U.S. joint forces alongside their African partners. This was exemplified by the recent **"African Lion"** exercise, which brought together **5,600 military and civilian personnel** from numerous countries.

The cruise missile, which was tested in July during the Project Convergence-Capstone 6 in California, has been developed by **Covenant Industries**, a U.S. company. Founded in 2024 by American-Israeli investor **Michael Kaufman**, Covenant Industries focuses on creating low-cost missiles and weapon systems and has a registered subsidiary in Israel. Reports indicate that some of the equipment and personnel involved in the missile testing in southern Morocco were sourced directly from Israel.

In the context of the ongoing **Russia-Ukraine war** and the turmoil in the **Middle East**, the Anthem missile is positioned as a potentially attractive option, particularly as an alternative to the more expensive **Tomahawk missiles**. According to U.S. media outlet

As reported by elmundo.es.