# Utah National Guard Strengthens Drone Capabilities with Morocco

The Utah National Guard, in collaboration with U.S. Africa Command and the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, conducted a joint small unmanned aircraft system (SUAS) training course in Agadir, Morocco, aimed at enhancing drone operational capabilities and interoperability. This initiative supports Utah's emerging drone program for homeland defense and fosters stronger military partnerships with Morocco. The training focused on operator development, doctrine integration, and multi-level proficiency to prepare forces for future joint operations and homeland security missions.

- This collaboration highlights growing demand for advanced unmanned systems and integrated drone operations within military procurement and training programs.
- Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on interoperability and doctrine integration, indicating opportunities for vendors offering training, simulation, and UAS operational support services.
- The international joint training underscores potential for cross-border defense procurement and cooperative capability development.
- Organizations involved in UAS technology and counter-UAS solutions may find increased interest from military entities expanding drone capabilities for homeland security and joint operations.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Cybersecurity
**Published:** September 25, 2026

### Government Entities
- Utah National Guard
- Royal Moroccan Armed Forces
- U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM)
- Combined Arms Training Center (CATC)
- 7th Army Training Command

### Key Quotes
> Joint training with UAS is important because these systems must be integrated into how we plan and operate, not treated as a separate capability.
> — Col. Zouhar Hamdani, Planning Officer, Royal Moroccan Armed Forces

> By training together with our Moroccan partners, we're building interoperability while learning how to integrate unmanned systems into larger operations and make the force more capable and lethal.
> — Lt. Col Corbett Baxter, Southern European Task Force - Africa

### Sources
- [DVIDS - News - Utah National Guard, Royal Moroccan Armed Forces strengthen drone capabilities through joint training](https://www.dvidshub.net/news/575650/utah-national-guard-royal-moroccan-armed-forces-strengthen-drone-capabilities-through-joint-training) - DVIDS