Morocco is seeking to reinforce the Moroccan Navy’s arsenal with the addition of two American frigates, according to a report of the American International Trade Administration, defense website Defense Here reported on Monday.
At a time when coastal security has become a priority, the Kingdom is interested in investing more in sophisticated coastal surveillance systems, according to the site.
Rabat also plans to invest heavily in command, joint control, and cyber defense capabilities.
Over the past year, the Kingdom has allocated US $17 billion to its defense budget as part of the 2030 Moroccan Army modernization plan, which aims to enhance interoperability with the United States and NATO.
While Morocco is the largest purchaser of American defense systems across the African continent, under the modernization plan, Morocco intends to establish a domestic defense industry. The Kingdom has already established the legal framework to develop a defense industry on its territory.
Morocco’s interest in modernizing its military arsenal, especially its maritime arsenal, has been evident from its participation in major joint military exercises and joint operations aimed at strengthening maritime security and coastal control, especially with Spain, the US, and NATO.