In a significant move to bolster its defense capabilities, Morocco has received a fresh batch of Bayraktar TB2 drones from Turkish defense company Baykartech. While the Moroccan government has yet to make an official statement regarding the delivery, sources close to the matter confirm the arrival of the drones, marking an important step in the country’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military.
This new shipment is part of Morocco’s broader strategy to enhance its military strength amid the ongoing Western Sahara dispute, a long-standing conflict with a separatist group backed by Algeria. The latest delivery builds upon a previous batch sent to Morocco in September 2021 and is aligned with the kingdom’s broader focus on upgrading its defense systems, particularly its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) fleet.
Since 2020, Morocco has been steadily increasing its UAV arsenal, recognizing the growing importance of drones in modern warfare. These high-tech drones have proven vital in protecting Morocco’s territorial integrity and ensuring security in the contested southern provinces. The drones have been essential in monitoring and countering movements by the separatist group, which has regularly violated the buffer zone in the region.
The Moroccan government’s continued investment in defense is also reflected in its 2024 finance bill, which allocates MAD 120.708 billion ($12 billion) to the defense ministry. This funding is part of a larger effort to transition from being an importer of military technology to a self-sufficient defense producer. To achieve this goal, Morocco is forging strategic partnerships with global defense giants like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon, focusing on building a sustainable domestic defense industry.
These efforts are part of Morocco’s broader objective to secure its southern provinces, enhance regional stability, and strengthen its geopolitical position in the face of growing regional challenges. As the country continues to invest in technological advancements and military partnerships, Morocco is positioning itself as a key player in the defense sector, with a clear focus on ensuring its strategic autonomy and long-term security.