U.S. and Moroccan special operations forces recently completed a Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) exercise on July 19, 2021, in Tangier, Morocco.
This JCET exercise – which is the third JCET program executed in Morocco this year, is designed to enhance the readiness of U.S. and partner forces, while also improving interoperability between nations.
During the closing ceremony, U.S. Army Col. Brian Hughes, U.S. Special Operations Command Africa deputy commander said “Our U.S. and Moroccan special operations teams put together an exceptional training plan that executed operations in the air, on the ground, and at sea.”
“The high level of readiness and interoperability we collectively achieved is a testament to the professionalism of the teams, the interoperability of U.S. and Moroccan forces, and our strong enduring partnership.” Col. Brian Hughes added.
U.S. special operations teams and their Moroccan counterparts trained for two months on marksmanship, small unit tactics, helicopter and maritime infiltration techniques, maritime interdiction operations, combat casualty care, and mission planning and execution.
Moroccan SOF units from the Gendarmerie, Army and Navy participated in the JCET exercise.
“The JCET is yet another excellent example of the close and enduring security partnership between the United States and Morocco,” said Chargé d’affaires Lawrence Randolph with the U.S. Embassy in Morocco. “It comes as we are celebrating the bicentennial of the Tangier American Legation, our first diplomatic post in Morocco and a symbol of 200 years of friendship between our countries.”
This year alone, the U.S. Special Operations Command Africa has conducted JCET with Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Morocco.
For Ivory Coast, the JCET exercise was done in Abijan on 9 July to provide special operations units specific training to hone military skills
According to the U.S. African Command (AFRICOM), this type of exercise provide opportunities for units to work together, learn from each other, build interoperability, and strengthen relationships.
Earlier this year, U.S. and Morocco participated in the 17th episode of African Lion. Tunisia, Morocco, Senegal and Spain hosted the multinational exercise.