Two African Warships to Take Centre Stage Alongside World’s Most Powerful Navy at Historic U.S. Naval Celebration
Two African naval vessels are preparing to sail into the global spotlight as they join the world’s largest maritime powers for one of the most significant naval events in modern history. Morocco and Senegal will showcase their naval strength during the United States’ historic 250th Independence anniversary celebrations, highlighting Africa’s growing role in international maritime security and defence cooperation.
The celebration, known as the International Naval Review (INR) 250, is being organised by the United States Navy as part of America’s 250th anniversary commemorations. Expected to be the largest naval review ever hosted by the United States, the event will bring together more than 100 naval vessels, over 30 tall ships and approximately 16,000 military personnel from around the world at the Port of New York and New Jersey.
Seven African nations are expected to participate in the landmark event, demonstrating the continent’s increasing engagement with global naval partnerships. However, Morocco and Senegal will play particularly prominent roles, with each nation deploying one of its frontline warships across the Atlantic to participate directly in the multinational fleet review.
According to Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Africa, the participation of African nations reflects years of strong military cooperation between the United States and its African partners.
“Our African partners’ participation in the International Naval Review 250 reflects the enduring relationships built through years of professional exchange, shared training and cooperation at sea,” Admiral Wikoff said.
Morocco will be represented by the RMNS Mohammed VI, one of the most advanced and capable warships currently operating within an African navy. The deployment also symbolises the long-standing friendship between Morocco and the United States, whose diplomatic ties date back to the historic Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed in 1786, the oldest unbroken treaty relationship in American history.
The 142-metre-long, 6,000-tonne frigate is a state-of-the-art FREMM (Frégate Européenne Multi-Mission) multi-mission warship built by the French defence company Naval Group and commissioned into service in 2014. Widely regarded as one of Africa’s most powerful naval assets, the vessel is designed for anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare.
Its impressive weapons systems include a 76mm Oto Melara naval gun capable of firing 120 rounds per minute over a range of up to 16 kilometres, 16 MBDA Aster 15 surface-to-air missiles, Exocet MM40 Block 3 anti-ship missiles and six 324mm torpedo launch tubes, making it one of the continent’s most heavily armed frigates.
Senegal will be represented by the Niani, the second vessel in the country’s modern Walo-class offshore patrol vessel fleet built by French shipbuilder Piriou. Although primarily designed for fisheries protection, maritime surveillance and safeguarding Senegal’s exclusive economic zone, the Niani possesses combat capabilities that place it among the most capable offshore patrol vessels operated by any African navy.
Measuring 62.2 metres in length and displacing around 600 tonnes, the vessel can reach speeds of up to 21 knots while maintaining an operational range of approximately 4,500 nautical miles. Its advanced weapons package includes four MBDA Marte Mk 2N anti-ship missiles, the SIMBAD-RC air defence system armed with Mistral 3 surface-to-air missiles, a 76mm naval gun, twin 20mm cannons and two 12.7mm heavy machine guns.
Commander Youssouph Ly, Senegal’s liaison officer at the Allies and Partners Coordination Centre, described the deployment as a defining moment for both the vessel and the Senegalese Navy.
“Participation in International Naval Review 250 marks a significant milestone for OPV Niani, showcasing the ship’s ability to operate far beyond national waters and the professionalism of its crew,” he said.
Beyond the deployment of warships, several other African nations will also be represented during the celebrations. Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon are expected to send senior naval and government officials, while Equatorial Guinea and Kenya will also participate through official government delegations.
The broad African presence at the International Naval Review underscores the continent’s expanding influence in global maritime affairs and reflects deepening defence partnerships with the United States and allied navies. As naval cooperation increasingly becomes essential in addressing piracy, illegal fishing, maritime crime and regional security challenges, the participation of African nations in one of the world’s largest naval gatherings signals the continent’s growing importance in maintaining security across international waters.
