Omanghana
Two African warships have made a historic transatlantic voyage to participate in the International Naval Review 250 (INR 250) in New York, joining navies from around the world in one of the largest international maritime celebrations ever hosted by the United States.
The event forms part of the United States’ 250th anniversary commemorations and brings together more than 100 naval vessels and 16,000 service members from allied and partner nations. While seven African countries sent senior military delegations to the celebrations, Morocco and Senegal marked the occasion by deploying frontline naval vessels to take part in the international fleet review.
Morocco and Senegal Represent Africa at Sea
The two participating ships rank among the most capable vessels operated by African navies, highlighting the continent’s growing maritime capabilities and expanding international defense partnerships.
RMNS Mohammed VI (Morocco)
Representing the Royal Moroccan Navy is the RMNS Mohammed VI, a 142-meter FREMM-class multi-mission frigate commissioned in 2014.
The approximately 6,000-ton warship is among the largest and most advanced surface combatants in Africa. Built through French and Italian cooperation, the frigate is equipped for a wide range of missions, including air defense, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine operations, and maritime security patrols. Its arsenal includes anti-ship missiles, vertical-launch surface-to-air missile systems, and torpedo launchers.
Niani (Senegal)
The Senegalese Navy is represented by Niani, a modern Walo-class (OPV 58 S) offshore patrol vessel built by French shipbuilder Piriou.
Measuring 62.2 meters in length, the vessel is designed to conduct maritime surveillance, fisheries protection, search-and-rescue operations, and coastal defense missions. It is equipped with a 76 mm main gun and other advanced defense systems that enhance Senegal’s maritime security capabilities.
Strengthening International Maritime Partnerships
The participation of Morocco and Senegal underscores the increasing ability of African navies to conduct long-range deployments far beyond their home waters while demonstrating the professionalism and operational readiness of their crews.
According to U.S. Naval Forces Africa, the presence of the two warships reflects decades of growing cooperation in maritime security, joint military exercises, professional training, and defense collaboration between the United States and African partner nations.
Morocco, in particular, shares one of the longest-standing diplomatic relationships with the United States. The two countries are linked by the Moroccan-American Treaty of Peace and Friendship, signed in 1786, which remains the longest unbroken treaty in U.S. history.
Celebrating 250 Years of U.S. Maritime Heritage
The International Naval Review 250 serves as one of the flagship events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, bringing together naval forces from across the globe to showcase international cooperation, maritime security, and naval diplomacy.
For Morocco and Senegal, the deployment represents not only a significant operational achievement but also an opportunity to strengthen defense ties with international partners while highlighting Africa’s growing role in global maritime security.
Source: Omanghana
