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A press release from the U.S. Embassy on Monday stated that the U.S. destroyer USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117) conducted a significant joint exercise with the Royal Moroccan Navy from December 2 to 4 in the Atlantic Ocean, following a recent stop in Agadir.

In this edition of Atlas Handshake, the USS Paul Ignatius and Morocco’s frigate Tarik Ben Ziyad carried out multiple interoperability exercises, such as visit–board–search-and-seizure (VBSS) operations, a combined anti-submarine warfare drill, and a live-fire demonstration at a Moroccan facility.

“Training with the Royal Moroccan Navy is crucial for enhancing our joint capability to combat illegal maritime activities,” stated Cmdr. Joseph Phillips, the ship’s commander, adding that these exercises keep U.S. and Moroccan forces “prepared and effective” in facing new challenges.

“Our collaboration with Morocco is robust and continues to expand,” stated U.S. Ambassador Duke Buchan III, reiterating Washington’s backing for Rabat and African allies in protecting marine resources and international trade routes.

The Paul Ignatius is currently serving with the U.S. Sixth Fleet, which is responsible for naval operations in Europe and Africa in cooperation with partner nations.