Morocco joins US-led Phoenix Express 2026 multinational maritime exercise in Tunisia

Morocco is taking part in Phoenix Express 2026, a major multinational maritime exercise bringing together North African, European and US forces in Tunisia to strengthen cooperation and maritime security capabilities in the southern Mediterranean.

The 12-day exercise began on September 7 at La Goulette Naval Base and is hosted by the Tunisian Navy. Sponsored by US Africa Command, it is facilitated by US Naval Forces Africa and led by the US 6th Fleet, according to a statement issued by the US Navy on September 8.

Alongside Morocco, participating countries include Algeria, Belgium, Egypt, France, Georgia, Italy, Libya, Tunisia, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Spain and the United States.

The exercise includes both land-based and at-sea phases, with participating forces using regional maritime operations centers to share real-time data and build a common operational picture. Activities include joint search-and-rescue drills, simulated ship boardings and live demonstrations aimed at improving tactical coordination and strengthening the participants’ ability to protect maritime trade routes and counter regional security threats.

The US 6th Fleet will also work with participating countries to integrate advanced systems and tracking tools designed to detect and deter illegal activities in African exclusive economic zones.

Phoenix Express, now in its 21st edition, is one of three regional maritime exercises led by US Naval Forces Africa to strengthen cooperation between African forces and international partners in addressing maritime security challenges.