Morocco welcomed the French Navy’s amphibious helicopter carrier, Tonnerre, as it docked in Casablanca on September 13 for a four-day stopover. The visit, which runs until September 16, includes joint activities with the Royal Moroccan Navy before the ship continues its “Corymbe” mission in the Gulf of Guinea.
Departing Toulon on September 10, the Tonnerre is en route to the Gulf of Guinea as part of the “Corymbe” operation, a maritime security initiative launched in 1990. The mission is designed to support stability in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime regions.
The Tonnerre is among the flagship vessels of the French Navy, with the capacity to host several helicopters, amphibious landing craft, and up to 650 personnel. It also features a command centre and a fully equipped onboard hospital, offering versatile capabilities that facilitate joint exercises and international cooperation.
The stopover in Casablanca highlights the longstanding partnership between the French and Moroccan navies. During the visit, conferences, official tours, and joint activities will foster stronger bilateral exchanges. A reception on board the ship brought together French Ambassador to Morocco Christophe Lecourtier, Captain Arnaud Bolelli, the Tonnerre’s commander, Moroccan officials, and representatives from the French community.
In addition to its operational mission, the Tonnerre is hosting the 2025 class of the Regional Embarked and Digital Training Course (SIREN). The programme gathers 39 trainees from 21 African and Southern European countries, including one Moroccan instructor and trainee. Its aim is to deepen understanding of key maritime state missions such as rescue operations, pollution control, anti-piracy measures, and crisis management.
Franco-Moroccan naval cooperation extends beyond this stopover. For over 30 years, the annual “Chébec” exercise has served as a testament to the commitment of both countries to interoperability and regional maritime security, reinforcing the strategic partnership and shared commitment to safeguarding international waters.
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