Morocco is expanding its defense cooperation with Israel, acquiring a range of military systems, including air defense, drones, artillery, and satellite capabilities. According to a report by the Israeli website JNS, the cooperation between Rabat and Tel Aviv is no longer limited to one area, but includes various systems for air defense, drones, intelligence, surveillance, and navigation, as well as artillery systems and satellite-related capabilities.
One of the notable deals mentioned in the report is Morocco's acquisition of the Barak 8 air defense system from Israel Aerospace Industries, valued at approximately $500 million in 2022. The Barak 8 system is part of Morocco's air defense network, which it is developing to update its capabilities to counter aircraft, missiles, and various airborne threats.
The cooperation between Morocco and Israel also extends to the space domain. In 2024, Israel Aerospace Industries signed an agreement valued at nearly $1 billion to provide Morocco with an intelligence satellite, expected to replace two satellites currently owned by Morocco. The satellite in question is reportedly Ofek 13.
Morocco has also acquired Israeli-made drones, including the Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 from Elbit Systems, as well as the Heron 1 from Israel Aerospace Industries. Additionally, Morocco has obtained 36 ATMOS 2000 self-propelled artillery systems from Elbit Systems, and reports suggest that it has also acquired between 8 and 12 PULS multiple rocket launchers valued at approximately $150 million.
This development coincides with Israel's participation in the upcoming Marrakech Air Show, scheduled to take place from October 7 to 10. Israeli defense companies, including Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Xtend, and UVision, are expected to participate in the event, showcasing technologies such as drones, air defense systems, precision weapons, and satellite-related technology.
The framework for defense cooperation between Morocco and Israel was established in November 2021, when the two countries signed a defense memorandum of understanding that included cooperation in areas such as intelligence, information sharing, military training, logistical support, defense industries, and military procurement. This development is part of a broader trend of rapprochement between Rabat and Tel Aviv since the resumption of diplomatic relations in 2020.
The cooperation between Morocco and Israel reflects a deepening of their defense relations, with Morocco acquiring a range of advanced military systems from Israel. The two countries' defense cooperation is expected to continue growing, with Israel participating in the Marrakech Air Show to showcase its latest defense technologies.
Key points
- Morocco has acquired the Barak 8 air defense system from Israel Aerospace Industries.
- Morocco has obtained Israeli-made drones, including the Hermes 450 and Hermes 900.
- The two countries signed a defense memorandum of understanding in November 2021.
