The Floréal-class frigates were designed in response to a demand for a cheap warship capable of operating in low threat areas and able to perform general patrol functions.

As a result, the Floréal class were constructed to mercantile standards in the areas of ammunition stowage, helicopter facilities and damage control, which significantly lowered the cost of the vessels.

The ship also mounts one Otobreda 76 mm (3 in) gun turret with Najir fire control system located forwards.

In place of the 20 mm (0.8 in) guns, the Moroccan Floréal-class frigates can be fitted with twin launchers for Simbad surface-to-air missiles.

[8] Mohammed V was ordered as the first of a pair of Floréal-class frigates on 12 July 1999 from Chantiers de l'Atlantique for construction at their yard in Saint-Nazaire, France.

[10] In March 2019, the ship participated in the international joint naval exercise Obangame Express 2019 that took place in the maritime area between Ivory Coast and Nigeria.