AFRICOM rules out relocating headquarters to Morocco, citing financial constraints

Budget concerns outweigh operational benefits

The head of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Michael Langley, confirmed this week that relocating AFRICOM’s headquarters from Germany to Morocco is not under consideration due to budgetary limitations. Langley addressed the matter during a session with the US House Military Affairs Committee, responding to a question from Congressman Abe Hamadeh.

Hamadeh highlighted Morocco’s historical ties with the United States, noting its status as the first country to recognize US independence and its growing strategic alliance with Washington. He inquired whether AFRICOM had any plans to move its headquarters to Morocco, given the country’s increasing importance as a partner in regional security.

Langley acknowledged Morocco’s significance but explained that the financial cost of such a move would outweigh its operational benefits. “The benefit operationally of us being able to operate from Stuttgart headquarters onto [Morocco] does not justify the cost of moving, which would significantly impact our budget,” he said.

Morocco’s role in regional stability

Despite ruling out a move, Langley praised Morocco as a key ally in ensuring stability and security in North Africa and beyond. He emphasized the North African country’s contributions to regional defense, calling Morocco a “great partner” and commending its efforts in “exporting security.”

In May, Morocco hosted the 21st edition of the African Lion military exercise, the largest annual military drill in Africa. The event brought together military representatives from the US and several other nations to address pressing security threats, including terrorism. US officials have consistently emphasized Morocco’s strategic role, describing it as a model for African defense and stability.

Langley reaffirmed this sentiment in March, stating that Morocco is viewed as a “reference in defense and stability” by African armies. He expressed confidence in the continuation of the strong partnership between the two nations, which he believes will contribute to the continent’s security.

Lobbying and military ties

The US remains Morocco’s largest arms supplier, accounting for 69% of the country’s military imports, followed by France and Israel. These close military ties have, however, faced scrutiny from certain US policymakers. Former Republican Senator James Inhofe, a vocal supporter of the Polisario Front, has lobbied against Morocco’s hosting of the African Lion exercises. Inhofe suggested alternative locations for the maneuver, but AFRICOM officials defended Morocco’s role, emphasizing the logistical and strategic challenges of finding another host country capable of matching Morocco’s capabilities over the past 21 years.

Langley concluded his remarks by reiterating the strength of Morocco-US military cooperation and the vital role Morocco plays in maintaining security across the region.