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AGADIR, Morocco - The 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) and the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces’ Groupement des Forces Spéciales (GFS) completed a Joint Combined Exchange Training on May 16, 2026, near Tifnit and Agadir, strengthening Morocco’s ability to respond to evolving security threats and reinforcing the close defense partnership between the United States and Morocco.
The multi-week JCET paired U.S. and Moroccan forces at the operations schoolhouse in Tifnit, focusing on readiness and the enhancement of critical skills essential to regional stability. Training included Fast Rope Insertion and Extraction System (FRIES) operations and a combined culminating exercise covering mission planning, infiltration, raid, and exfiltration tactics.
“Fast rope insertions are critical to offensive operations in urban environments, and in locations where obstacles restrict movement and maneuver,” said the 19th SFG(A) team leader. “Being able to train this skillset with our GFS partners not only demonstrated the high operational capabilities of the unit, it also showcased their ability to coordinate with multiple units and services within the region to enable our joint operations.”
The program sharpened small-unit tactics, marksmanship, and special reconnaissance capabilities, preparing both forces to respond effectively to a range of security challenges. Morocco’s contributions to regional security highlight its role as a capable and trusted partner.
“The success of this 19th SFG JCET was built on the strength of the relationships developed over years of partnership,” said Maj. Jared L. Sorensen, bilateral affairs officer, Utah National Guard State Partnership Program. “These engagements allow our forces to train together, exchange knowledge, and strengthen interoperability. More importantly, they reinforce the trust and shared commitment that have defined the U.S.-Morocco SOF partnership for over two decades.”
JCETs are a cornerstone of SOCAFRICA’s partnership-focused approach, enabling U.S. forces and partner nations to strengthen readiness while supporting security cooperation efforts across the region.
| Date Taken: | 07.22.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 07.27.2026 07:50 |
| Story ID: | 570581 |
| Location: | AGADIR, MA |
| Web Views: | 19 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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