MARRAKESH, Morocco -- Against the backdrop of desert skies and dynamic terrain, more than 10,000 troops from 50 nations converged for African Lion 2025 (AL25), the largest joint annual military exercise on the African continent. From May 12–23, U.S. and Moroccan Air Forces led an array of tactical operations, from lifesaving medical evacuations to complex air-to-air refueling missions, showcasing the strength of multinational cooperation and strategic readiness.
At Kenitra Air Base, U.S. and Moroccan medical teams sharpened their aeromedical evacuation capabilities during an intensive week-long training. Crews executed two live fly missions and two static scenarios aboard a Moroccan C-130H Hercules, preparing to stabilize and transport patients under operational stress.
“Aeromedical evacuation is a vital capability for joint forces because it delivers rapid, life-saving care while preserving combat power,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Scott Helmer, flight nurse, 139th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, New York Air National Guard. “It ensures our joint force can fight, recover, and return stronger, anytime, anywhere.”
The training also included combat offloading events and joint aircraft inspections, which not only enhanced clinical proficiency but also strengthened trust between partner forces.
“This training enhances interoperability by aligning procedures, building shared medical standards, and improving how we communicate and operate as a unified medical team,” Helmer added.
Meanwhile, high above Marrakesh, the rumble of U.S. Air Force KC-135R Stratotankers echoed across the sky as 166th Air Refueling Squadron Airmen from the Ohio Air National Guard conducted air-to-air refueling familiarization flights with Royal Moroccan Air Force F-16 pilots.
More than 35 Moroccan pilots executed multiple “dry contact” refueling passes, maneuvers that simulate mid-air refueling without the fuel transfer, to build muscle memory and mission readiness.
“Although we didn't offload fuel during these dry contacts, this type of training is essential for maintaining proficiency, currency, and trust in multinational operations,” said Master Sgt. Anthony Derryberry, tactics noncommissioned officer in charge, 166th ARS.
“Air-to-air refueling is a complex maneuver, and to conduct it safely and effectively requires precision and coordination,” added U.S. Air Force Col. Dennis Bird, director of operations, Ohio National Guard Joint Forces Headquarters. “This training strengthens their capability and deepens our cooperation and interoperability with the Moroccans.”
The multi-domain nature of African Lion 2025, encompassing land, air, maritime, space, and cyberspace operations, reflects the evolving challenges faced by global coalitions.
"The rigorous training scenarios we face in African Lion 25 push us to our limits, ensuring we're prepared for the complexities of real-world operations,” said Lt. Gen. Jason Hinds, USAFE-AFAFRICA deputy commander. “This exercise builds the readiness we need to respond effectively to any challenge alongside Allies and partners.”
U.S. Air Force KC-135s delivered crucial airlift support and airdrop missions, while Moroccan-led medevac exercises provided New York and New Jersey Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve units the chance to simulate patient movement in high-stress, combat-like scenarios.
For U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces in Africa, the exercise underscores the commitment to partnership and preparation.
“Working with our Moroccan partners during African Lion has been a great opportunity to build real-world readiness,” said Maj. Kelly Machado, USAFE-AFAFRICA African Lion lead planner. “Whether it’s practicing air-to-air refueling or training for aeromedical evacuation, this exercise helped us learn from each other and stay ready for whatever comes next.”
As African Lion 2025 concludes, the shared experiences, lessons learned, and bonds formed between U.S. and Moroccan forces serve as a testament to the power of partnership.
Every dry contact, every simulated medevac, and every joint planning session has reinforced a singular goal, staying ready, together, for the challenges of tomorrow.