The U.S Department of Defense will formalize an agreement for Morocco to acquire its first ever Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets within the coming months, making Morocco the only African country to be equipped with a massive fleet of 32 fifth-generation American stealth aircraft, according to the Israeli outlet “Identité Juive.”
According to military experts, Moroccan and Israeli military officials negotiated the sale of the F-35 Lightning II bomber from 2020 to 2022. Following a landmark meeting in November 2021 between Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz and his Moroccan counterpart, Abdellatif Loudiyi, Morocco sought Israel’s support in expediting this purchase.
Morocco’s decision is driven by escalating political tensions with Algeria and the Polisario Front. Morocco reportedly turned to Tel Aviv for assistance in facilitating the acquisition of these advanced aircraft from the U.S. military.
The purchase and maintenance of the fleet of 32 F-35 jets over a 45-year period will cost Morocco approximately USD 17 billion. This strategic acquisition is poised to significantly alter the geostrategic balance in the Mediterranean region, solidifying Morocco’s position as Africa’s foremost military power.
The F-35 acquisition represents a critical step in modernizing Morocco’s air force, which currently relies on fourth-generation aircraft like the F-16. The advanced stealth capabilities and cutting-edge technology of the F-35 will enhance Morocco’s deterrence power, particularly against Algeria’s anticipated deployment of Russian-made Su-57 fighter jets.
Beyond reinforcing national defense, these jets will bolster Morocco’s role as a key player in North African security, allowing the kingdom to address regional threats more effectively and assert itself as a major defense actor.
The F-35 was the highlight of the 7th Marrakech Air Show, held from October 30 to November 2, 2024, at the Royal Air Forces Training Base in Marrakech. Now a cornerstone of the African civil and military aviation industry, the expo showcased cutting-edge technologies and welcomed over 300 exhibitors and 100 international civil and military delegations.
The event was organized by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the National Defense Administration, with support from the Royal Air Forces.
One of the key moments of the show was the official introduction of Morocco’s first Boeing Apache AH-64E helicopter. Production of 24 units for the Royal Air Forces is already underway, further cementing Morocco’s strategic role in aerial defense.
The Marrakech Air Show 2024 reinforced Morocco’s standing as a hub for aerospace and defense innovation in Africa. With its emphasis on showcasing cutting-edge advancements and fostering international collaboration, the event highlighted Morocco’s growing influence in the global aviation and defense sectors.