AI, robotics take centre stage in Morocco’s African Lion drills
Advanced technologies integrated into joint field operations as US deepens military cooperation with key regional ally
RABAT, Morocco (MNTV) — Morocco will host the 22nd edition of the African Lion military exercises, as the United States confirmed that this year’s drills will, for the first time, directly integrate artificial intelligence, robotics and next-generation warfare technologies into live field operations.
According to US military officials, the exercises will include a dedicated innovation and experimentation hub functioning as an open-air laboratory embedded within the maneuvers.
The facility will allow participating forces to test AI-enabled systems, autonomous platforms and advanced digital tools under realistic combat conditions, spanning frontline units and command centers.
The initiative will enable commanders and troops to evaluate decision-making processes, data flow and coordination between units in near real-time, marking a shift from conceptual demonstrations to the operational deployment of emerging military technologies during multinational exercises.
US officials said the new approach reflects an effort to bridge the gap between technological innovation and battlefield application. Technology firms will work alongside military planners to ensure that systems under development are adapted to operational requirements and integrated effectively into joint missions.
Analysts say Morocco’s role as host for these trials carries significant strategic implications, underscoring Washington’s confidence in the kingdom’s political stability, the professionalism of its armed forces and its intelligence capabilities.
The Royal Moroccan Armed Forces confirmed that the exercises will be conducted across several locations, including Agadir, Tan-Tan, Taroudant, Kenitra and Benguerir.
The drills aim to enhance interoperability among participating forces, strengthen readiness and assess combined operational capabilities.
Previous editions of African Lion have involved more than 40,000 troops, making it one of the largest annual military exercises on the African continent.
The 2026 iteration is also intended to accelerate the transition of emerging technologies from experimental testing to active operational use, reflecting the growing importance of information dominance, AI-supported decision-making, and rapid coordination between battlefield units and command structures in modern warfare.
The exercises take place amid expanding military cooperation between Morocco and the United States. In October, Morocco’s Delegate Minister for Defense Administration Abdellatif held talks with US Africa Command leadership in Rabat, focusing on operational readiness, defense industry development and capacity-building initiatives.
African Lion builds on the ten-year US-Morocco Defense Cooperation Agreement signed in 2020, which has deepened bilateral ties through joint training, arms procurement and intelligence sharing.
Military observers say African Lion 2026 goes beyond routine training, serving as a strategic signal of Morocco’s central role in regional security and Washington’s intent to maintain influence in Africa amid increasing Russian and Chinese engagement on the continent.
By integrating Morocco into next-generation military operations, the United States is reinforcing trust with a key partner while showcasing advanced capabilities in a region of rising strategic importance.
Officials say lessons drawn from the drills are expected to shape future multinational deployments of AI, robotics and autonomous systems.
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