The Moroccan and French navies are deepening their operational ties in the western Mediterranean through the CHEBEC naval exercise, which reaches a key milestone on 30 September with a joint stop in Tangier by the frigates Tarik Ben Ziyad and Guépratte.
CHEBEC naval exercise: what to know
The CHEBEC naval exercise has been held every year since 1994, bringing together the Royal Moroccan Navy and the French Navy for combined training at sea.
Initially focused on maritime safety and security, CHEBEC has gradually broadened its scope. It now covers a wider range of naval operations, including coordinated responses to potential crises at sea.
The 2026 edition started on 11 September and fits into a pattern of regular military cooperation between the two countries, especially in the western Mediterranean.
From Toulon to Tangier: frigates and a submarine at work
Crews from the Moroccan frigate Tarik Ben Ziyad and the French frigate Guépratte have been training in the Mediterranean between Toulon and Tangier.
Before these joint maneuvers at sea, sailors went through a preparation phase at the naval base in Toulon and the naval air station in Hyères in southern France.
A French nuclear-powered attack submarine also took part in the CHEBEC naval exercise. Its presence allowed both sides to practice anti-submarine warfare, a strategic capability for securing busy shipping routes.
Tangier stopover and joint VIP day
On 30 September, the Tarik Ben Ziyad and the Guépratte make a port call in Tangier, underscoring the strategic position of the northern Moroccan hub at the crossroads between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.
During this stopover, a VIP Day will be held. It will be co-chaired by Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy, and Vice Admiral Laurent Hermann, Commander of the Mediterranean maritime zone of the French Navy.
This high-level meeting will review the training phases and identify ways to further deepen operational cooperation between the two navies.
Joint patrol in the Alboran Sea
After the Tangier stop, the two frigates will conduct a joint operational patrol in the Alboran Sea, the busy stretch of water between northern Morocco and southern Spain.
This phase aims to strengthen coordination in naval operations and improve joint crisis response at sea, whether in cases of:
- incidents involving merchant vessels;
- search and rescue operations;
- or threats to maritime security.
For Moroccans living abroad who regularly travel to the country by air or sea, this type of deployment remains in the background. It contributes to securing sea approaches, trade flows and ferry routes linking Morocco and Europe.
A building block of regional stability
The this case illustrates Morocco’s growing role in ensuring stability in the western Mediterranean. It complements other forms of cooperation with European partners, particularly in maritime surveillance.
For the Moroccan community abroad, it is also a reminder of the strategic importance of the country’s ports, especially those in the north, in maintaining reliable access to the homeland and smooth trade connections.
For detailed practical guidance on stays, investments or return plans in Morocco, you can refer to Canal212’s dedicated guide for Moroccans abroad and consult the information available on the official portal for Moroccans living overseas.
For more context, readers can follow Canal212 news for Moroccans abroad.
Don’t miss out on the latest news from the diaspora!
Sign up for our next newsletter to receive our practical guides, advice (on procedures and investment) and the latest news for French nationals living abroad, delivered straight to your inbox.
