Turkish defense company Baykar, known for its Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci drones, is expanding its presence in Morocco with the establishment of a factory dedicated to manufacturing armed drones, local media reported.
A key supplier to Rabat since 2021, Baykar has regularly delivered drones to the Kingdom. This new facility marks a deeper level of cooperation, ensuring not only local production but also the maintenance of these aerial systems.
Morocco has emerged as one of Africa’s leading operators of military drones, continuously strengthening its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities. The Kingdom has acquired Bayraktar TB2 combat drones through multiple deals, including an initial contract worth approximately USD 70 million.
In addition to surveillance and reconnaissance UAVs, Morocco is also preparing to integrate the advanced Bayraktar Kizilelma TB3 stealth drones into its fleet. To facilitate this transition, Moroccan military personnel have participated in training programs in Türkiye to master piloting these aircraft.
Drones play a central role in Morocco’s national security strategy, providing a cost-effective combination of endurance, payload capacity, and operational versatility. Turkish models, such as the Bayraktar TB2 and Anka, continue to be key assets in the Kingdom’s modernization efforts, further reinforcing its strategic partnership with Baykar.
In a recent demonstration of their versatility, Bayraktar TB2 drones played a crucial role in Morocco’s disaster response. Following the devastating Al-Haouz earthquake on September 8, 2023, these drones located five shepherds who had been trapped in a mountainous area for three days. The real-time aerial intelligence provided by the drones enabled the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) to dispatch timely assistance, underscoring the life-saving potential of UAVs in emergencies.
This incident highlights the expanding applications of drones beyond military operations, underscoring their value in humanitarian efforts and disaster relief. The successful deployment of Bayraktar TB2s in such contexts not only strengthens Morocco’s defense capabilities but also enhances its capacity to respond effectively to natural disasters.