As part of the military cooperation between Morocco and France, representatives from both armies have been meeting to coordinate the upcoming “Chergui 2025” maneuvers, scheduled for September 22, 2025. According to reports, Paris is also involved in plans to build an airbase in the southernmost part of the Sahara to launch aerial operations against jihadist terrorism in the Sahel region. This development is a significant step forward in the two nations’ collaborative efforts to bolster regional security.
Recently, officials from neighboring countries confirmed that an agreement had been reached to host exercises in the “Rahmatullah” and “Ardo” training areas in Rashidiyah. These exercises will involve both ground and air units, aiming to enhance operational coordination and foster an exchange of experiences between the parties. By engaging in such joint maneuvers, Morocco and France are set to further strengthen their military ties, ultimately contributing to enhanced stability in the region.
The “Chergui 2025” maneuvers are set to unfold in two main phases. The first phase, also known as the Command Post Exercise (CPX), will be conducted at the leadership level. During this stage, practical scenarios will be simulated to hone planning capabilities and joint decision-making between the participating forces. By doing so, the armies will be able to test their readiness and responsiveness in a controlled environment.
Key Objectives of the Maneuvers
The second phase, referred to as the Live Exercise (LIVEX), will involve field training exercises with the participation of ground and air units in a real-world operational setting. The primary goal of this phase is to assess combat preparedness and fortify coordination among the forces. This comprehensive approach to military cooperation underscores the commitment of Morocco and France to tackling the pressing security challenges facing the region.
Regional Security Challenges
The “Chergui 2025” maneuvers are part of the ongoing military cooperation between Morocco and France, which seeks to bolster the capabilities of the armed forces in both countries. By working together, they aim to address regional and international security challenges, particularly in coastal and desert countries, and to combat terrorist organizations. The construction of the airbase in the Sahara is a strategic move to enhance their operational capabilities and launch effective counter-terrorism operations in the Sahel region. As the situation continues to evolve, it will be essential to monitor the progress of these joint efforts and their impact on regional stability.