Moroccan Navy Frigate Joins International Naval Review in New York

Marrakech, The Gulf Observer: The Royal Moroccan Navy frigate RMNS Mohammed VI participated in the prestigious International Naval Review 250 in New York, sailing alongside more than 35 warships from 15 nations as the United States commemorated the 250th anniversary of its independence.

The Moroccan frigate, accompanied by the Senegalese Navy offshore patrol vessel Niani, was one of only two African warships included in the multinational naval formation on the Hudson River during the official review held on July 4. The event highlighted international maritime cooperation and celebrated longstanding partnerships between participating nations.

According to the US Navy, the participation of RMNS Mohammed VI demonstrated the Royal Moroccan Navy’s capability for long-range deployment and sustained operations in distant maritime theatres. The deployment also reflected the close and expanding naval cooperation between Morocco and the United States through joint training, professional exchanges, port visits, and major multinational exercises, including African Lion, Cutlass Express, FLEETEX 250, and the African Maritime Forces Summit.

The review also brought together senior naval delegations from Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and Kenya, representing maritime cooperation across North, West, Central, and East Africa.

As part of the commemorative events, the Royal Moroccan Navy hosted an official reception aboard RMNS Mohammed VI in New York on July 6. The ceremony was attended by US Ambassador to Morocco Duke Buchan III, Moroccan Ambassador to the United States Youssef Amrani, senior Moroccan and American military officials, and diplomatic representatives.

Addressing the gathering, Rear Admiral El Mostafa Tarzi, Commander of the Maritime Sector of Morocco’s Southern Zone, said Morocco’s participation reflected the enduring friendship between Morocco and the United States, recalling that Morocco became the first country to recognize American independence in 1777. He described the bilateral relationship as an exceptional partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and a common commitment to international peace, stability, and maritime security.

Rear Admiral Tarzi emphasized that continued cooperation between the Royal Moroccan Navy and the US Navy plays a vital role in safeguarding freedom of navigation, strengthening maritime security, and promoting regional and global stability.

Ambassador Duke Buchan III highlighted the historical significance of Sultan Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah’s decision to open Moroccan ports to American ships in 1777, describing it as a landmark act that supported the emergence of the young American republic. He said the presence of the Moroccan frigate at the celebrations symbolized the deep-rooted friendship shared by both nations.

The US envoy further noted that Morocco participates annually in more than 100 US-led military exercises and activities, underscoring the strength of the bilateral security partnership. He also reaffirmed Washington’s support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the basis for resolving the Moroccan Sahara issue.

Moroccan Ambassador Youssef Amrani welcomed continued US support for Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces, describing the Royal Moroccan Navy’s participation in the naval review as a powerful reflection of one of the oldest and most enduring strategic partnerships in American history.

The ceremony concluded with the commanding officer of RMNS Mohammed VI presenting Rear Admiral Bradley Andros with a commemorative painting depicting the Moroccan frigate anchored in New York Harbor against the city’s iconic skyline.

The International Naval Review 250 continues through July 8, featuring public ship tours, professional exchanges, senior-level engagements, military performances, and community events across the New York metropolitan area.