Advancing Unmanned Aircraft Systems Training in Morocco
In an era where unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are revolutionizing military operations, a collaborative training initiative between the Utah National Guard and the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces is paving the way for enhanced skills and shared knowledge. This partnership, which took place in Agadir, Morocco, in September 2026, aimed at developing UAS operators and instructors while fostering interoperability between U.S. and Moroccan military forces. The training course, facilitated by U.S. Africa Command and supported by organizations like the Combined Arms Training Center, sought to create a robust foundation for integrating drone technology into military missions.
The course is not merely a training session but a continuation of a 23-year State Partnership Program that has seen the Utah National Guard and Morocco work closely together. As both nations prepare to celebrate 250 years of diplomatic relations in 2027, the historical connection—dating back to Morocco's recognition of the United States as an independent nation in 1777—continues to flourish through military cooperation, cultural exchanges, and professional development initiatives. The U.S. and Moroccan forces are united in their mission to cultivate a more effective and adaptable military force capable of addressing contemporary security challenges.
Building a Comprehensive Drone Program
The training initiative is a significant step in the development of Utah's emerging drone program, which is being designed to bolster homeland defense capabilities. Participants in the course, including U.S. Army personnel and their Moroccan counterparts, engaged in comprehensive training that extended beyond the basics of drone operation. They collaborated on the planning, doctrine, and practical aspects of incorporating UAS into military operations. This collaborative approach is vital for establishing a mutual operational understanding that will benefit both forces in future joint exercises.
According to Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Santiago, a master instructor involved in the program, the focus is first on developing qualified operators who can then train others, thereby creating a shared knowledge base. This structure is intended to ensure that when the forces integrate for joint missions, they will possess similar operational knowledge and planning capabilities. The goal is to establish a training program that not only enhances individual drone skills but also fosters broader operational readiness.
For Utah Army National Guard 1st Lt. Jake Sorenson, who plays a crucial role in establishing the state's drone program, the training offers invaluable insights into different approaches to UAS integration. Sorenson emphasizes the importance of creating a comprehensive training framework that encompasses operator training, maintenance, and specialized drone functions. This holistic approach aims to prepare personnel from basic drone familiarity to advanced operational proficiency, ensuring that both domestic and international partners can effectively collaborate in the realm of unmanned systems.
As the demand for sophisticated unmanned systems grows in military operations worldwide, the Utah National Guard and the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces exemplify how international partnerships can enhance capabilities and readiness. With a shared commitment to advancing drone technology and operational effectiveness, these forces are setting a precedent for future collaborations aimed at addressing the evolving landscape of modern warfare.
As reported by army.mil.
