Summary:

During the African Land Forces Summit that took place between 23 and 24 March 2026 in Rome, bringing together over 300 participants from 47 countries, the United States announced plans to establish a regional drone training center in Morocco as part of its security strategy in Africa.  

The initiative, presented by General Christopher Donahue, Commanding General of US Army Europe and Africa, aims to enhance collaboration, intelligence sharing, and counterterrorism efforts. The program will be tested through a pilot drone training module involving around 16 participants during the African Lion 2026 exercise, with activities taking place across several countries including Morocco, Ghana, Senegal, and Tunisia. 

Outlook: 

The US decision to establish a drone training center in Morocco reinforces the country’s position as a key regional security partner, highlighting its strategic importance for counterterrorism and intelligence-sharing efforts in Africa.  

Morocco’s central role in African Lion 2026 and in hosting the training center signals its growing influence in regional military cooperation and technology-driven security initiatives. This development reflects broader US strategy to leverage trusted partners like Morocco to address evolving terrorist threats and regional instability. Morocco also hopes to position itself as a focal point for future multinational security programs across the continent. 

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