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Rabat – Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces (FAR) are organizing the Moroccan-American disaster management exercise called “Moroccan Mantlet 2022,” between September 12-23 in Kenitra, 50 kilometers north of Rabat.
The annual exercise brings together specialized FAR disaster management teams, the Utah State National Guard, and the U.S. Risk Reduction Agency. In addition to theoretical training and attempting to develop effective procedures, the teams also conducted practical exercises on disaster control situations.
FAR Rescue Unit Commander Colonel Mehdi Ouhadi told the press that the exercise particularly aims to improve the capabilities of firefighting forces, both in the practicalities of extinguishing the fires as well as integrating geographical data in disaster management.
The exercise took place in two phases: a theoretical phase consisting of seminars, and a practical one in the FAR’s 3rd Air Base in Kenitra.
Utah’s National Guard Commander Major General Michael Turley also stressed the importance of the exercise, praising the FAR’s capabilities as well as their skillset.
Fire extinguishing exercises were conducted in Kenitra using Morocco’s arsenal of Canadair Super Scooper planes, while the search and rescue unit conducted exercises to rescue survivors in various situations such as building collapses, drowning at sea, or victims of nuclear radiation.
In the midst of a historic heatwave and suffering from the consequences of climate change, this year saw unprecedented wildfires in Morocco, pushing the country to improve its firefighting arsenal.
As temperatures continue rising globally, experts agree that natural disasters will become increasingly common, including fires and rising sea levels resulting in floods.
The exercises also come in the midst of increasing cooperation between the United States and Morocco. Following their celebration of 200 years of relations, the two countries have been exchanging experiences in the military and security fields, among others.
