Strategic Morocco–US military cooperation center takes shape in tan-tan
The Morocco–United States military cooperation is entering a new phase with the development of a cutting-edge hub in Tan-Tan. Known as the Advanced Multidomain Training and Experimentation Center (AMTEC), this initiative is built on three core pillars: a Multidomain Training Area (MDTA), a Drone Academy (MTDA), and an Innovation and Experimentation Center. The project aims to fast-track the modernization of military capabilities by integrating emerging technologies and fostering interoperability among African and Western partners.
According to General Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces (FAR), Morocco is uniquely positioned to bring this vision to life. “The Kingdom’s existing infrastructure and highly skilled workforce provide a solid foundation for translating this concept into operational reality swiftly,” he stated. He also highlighted Morocco’s potential as a reliable industrial partner for the United States in defense and technology sectors.
Training, technology and cooperation: the three pillars of AMTEC
- The Multidomain Training Area (MDTA) will serve as a high-end training ground where forces can prepare for operations in complex environments, including across the full electromagnetic spectrum. Troops will train to handle challenges ranging from cyber threats to electronic warfare, ensuring readiness for modern conflicts.
- The Drone Academy (MTDA) is designed to train African operators in small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS), with a strong focus on counterterrorism operations across West Africa. The academy will equip personnel with skills in drone piloting, data analysis, and mission planning.
- The Innovation and Experimentation Center will serve as a rapid prototyping lab for emerging defense technologies. Priority areas include artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and advanced communications. The center will also develop cost-effective, scalable solutions tailored to Africa’s operational realities.
Beyond defense: economic and technological ripple effects
AMTEC is not just a military project—it’s a catalyst for broader innovation. By involving defense industries and academic institutions, the center aims to foster a vibrant ecosystem around advanced defense technologies. It could also become a testing ground for next-generation wireless and detection technologies, while supporting development in remote regions.
General Dagvin Anderson, Commander of AFRICOM, emphasized the initiative’s potential. “This represents a major opportunity for both American and African defense industries and academic institutions to innovate and develop solutions that address the continent’s evolving security challenges,” he noted.
African Lion 2027: a real-world test for AMTEC
The first major validation of AMTEC’s capabilities will come during African Lion 2027. This annual exercise, held in Morocco, has long served as a proving ground for integrating cutting-edge technologies into real-world operations. The 2027 edition will provide the first operational demonstration of AMTEC’s training, drone, and innovation systems—setting the stage for its full deployment.
