Royal Moroccan Armed forces
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The SC
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Moroccan fighters accompanying an American nuclear bomber
The Moroccan Armed Forces released footage of the escort of F-16 aircraft of the Royal Air Force of the nuclear bomber B-52 in Moroccan airspace, at the conclusion of the "African Assad" maneuvers between the Moroccan and American forces
The Moroccan Armed Forces released footage of the escort of F-16 aircraft of the Royal Air Force of the nuclear bomber B-52 in Moroccan airspace, at the conclusion of the "African Assad" maneuvers between the Moroccan and American forces
The SC
INT'L MOD
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- #68
A report published by the Times Aerospace website, a specialist in aviation and defense industry, revealed that the Kingdom of Morocco has become close to becoming the first Arab and African country to obtain the American F-35 stealth fighters.
F-35 fighters .. Israel agrees to the deal for Morocco
This comes after Israel expressed its implicit approval to complete this deal, after many years in which it exerted strong pressure on successive American departments to prevent the sale of this advanced type of fighters to any Arab country.
According to the report, the expected deal includes the supply of 32 F-35 fighters to the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, with a total value of about $ 17 billion, including aircraft price, maintenance and technical support costs.
The site pointed out that some of the well -informed sources, which attended the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) that was held in Abu Dhabi last February, confirmed that Donald Trump's possible return to the White House may contribute to accelerating the pace of completion of the deal, given that Trump had given the green light for it during his first term.
The report added that representatives of the Lockheed Martin company, which manufactures F-35 ghost fighters from the fifth generation, made a detailed presentation of a Moroccan military delegation at the Idex exhibition, during which they reviewed the technical and combat capabilities of this advanced plane.
F-35 fighters .. a qualitative leap for the Royal Moroccan Air Force
The site pointed out that Morocco's obtaining these fighters will constitute a qualitative shift in the capabilities of the Moroccan Air Force, noting that the American administration had agreed, in August 2020, a deal to sell 24 F-16C/D Block 72 to Morocco (distributed between 20 F-16C aircraft and four F-16D aircraft).
These aircraft are equipped with Pratt & Whitney F100-229 engines, and they are expected to start delivery this year.
Fulll update of Morocco fighter aircrafts
The report also indicated that other Moroccan F-16 aircraft are currently undergoing an integrated update program to convert it to the latest F-16V version, equipped with Northrop Grumman APG-83 (AESA).
It is also equipped with AN/AAQ-33 SNIPER, developed by Lockheed Martin, along with the AN/Alq-213 system from Terma, and the integrated electronic defense system AN/Alq-211 from L3HARRIS.
Preparing two GULFSTREAM reconnaissance aircraft
Work is also underway to equip two new GULFSTREAM 550 reconnaissance of Morocco by L3 Systems, in cooperation with Israeli Elta systems, within the company's facility in Greenville, Texas, USA.
The report pointed out that this arsenal is one of the advanced weapons, accompanied by Morocco's possession of spy satellites, which will be greatly enhanced by its ability to monitor and follow up.
F-35 fighters .. Israel agrees to the deal for Morocco
This comes after Israel expressed its implicit approval to complete this deal, after many years in which it exerted strong pressure on successive American departments to prevent the sale of this advanced type of fighters to any Arab country.
According to the report, the expected deal includes the supply of 32 F-35 fighters to the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, with a total value of about $ 17 billion, including aircraft price, maintenance and technical support costs.
The site pointed out that some of the well -informed sources, which attended the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) that was held in Abu Dhabi last February, confirmed that Donald Trump's possible return to the White House may contribute to accelerating the pace of completion of the deal, given that Trump had given the green light for it during his first term.
The report added that representatives of the Lockheed Martin company, which manufactures F-35 ghost fighters from the fifth generation, made a detailed presentation of a Moroccan military delegation at the Idex exhibition, during which they reviewed the technical and combat capabilities of this advanced plane.
F-35 fighters .. a qualitative leap for the Royal Moroccan Air Force
The site pointed out that Morocco's obtaining these fighters will constitute a qualitative shift in the capabilities of the Moroccan Air Force, noting that the American administration had agreed, in August 2020, a deal to sell 24 F-16C/D Block 72 to Morocco (distributed between 20 F-16C aircraft and four F-16D aircraft).
These aircraft are equipped with Pratt & Whitney F100-229 engines, and they are expected to start delivery this year.
Fulll update of Morocco fighter aircrafts
The report also indicated that other Moroccan F-16 aircraft are currently undergoing an integrated update program to convert it to the latest F-16V version, equipped with Northrop Grumman APG-83 (AESA).
It is also equipped with AN/AAQ-33 SNIPER, developed by Lockheed Martin, along with the AN/Alq-213 system from Terma, and the integrated electronic defense system AN/Alq-211 from L3HARRIS.
Preparing two GULFSTREAM reconnaissance aircraft
Work is also underway to equip two new GULFSTREAM 550 reconnaissance of Morocco by L3 Systems, in cooperation with Israeli Elta systems, within the company's facility in Greenville, Texas, USA.
The report pointed out that this arsenal is one of the advanced weapons, accompanied by Morocco's possession of spy satellites, which will be greatly enhanced by its ability to monitor and follow up.
The SC
INT'L MOD
- Thread starter
- #69
The official completion of the manufacture of all the Moroccan F-16 Block 72+ engines
In a new development related to the F-16 Block 72 fighter deal, which Morocco has acquired, it was officially announced that all its engines were made, which represents an important step on the path of receiving the first aircraft in the near future. The information indicates that Morocco has requested 29 F100-PW-229 EEP engine, which is produced by the American company "Prat & Whitney", within the deal concluded, where 25 engineers are allocated to fighting aircraft, while four additional engines will be kept as reserves with the maintenance teams of the Royal Air Force.
The manufacturing process was completed in the fourth week of last July, indicating that working in the production of the aircraft itself amounted to very advanced stages. Estimates indicate that the first Moroccan fighter of this model appears at the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026 at the latest.
The Moroccan demand included additional equipment along with engines, with the aim of enhancing technical and logistical preparations to receive new aircraft. In addition to the backup engines, a large number of extra equipment was requested, led by advanced JHMCS helmets (or Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System), where Morocco requested 40 helmets to equip 25 aircraft, indicating the availability of five backup helmets used when needed, taking into account that the new fleet includes aircraft One and dual seat. 26 AESA AN/APG-83 SABR radars were also requested, i.e. with a number of aircraft in addition to a single backup radar, in addition to a backup computer and other equipment of a technical and operational nature.
These aircraft, as soon as they enter service, will make the Royal Moroccan Air Force the only African operator for the most advanced F-16 copies, equipped with a fifth-generation radar and armament systems are among the most dangerous in their class. These systems include long-range AIM-120C-8 missiles, which have a combat range of 180 km, and SDB smart bombs with a range of about 110 km, in addition to Harbon anti-ship missiles with a range of 180 km, as well as super-3 heavy fortifications of GBU-31 Its maximum range is 120 km, along with the various ammunition and missiles that Moroccan F-16 fighters are in service.
In a new development related to the F-16 Block 72 fighter deal, which Morocco has acquired, it was officially announced that all its engines were made, which represents an important step on the path of receiving the first aircraft in the near future. The information indicates that Morocco has requested 29 F100-PW-229 EEP engine, which is produced by the American company "Prat & Whitney", within the deal concluded, where 25 engineers are allocated to fighting aircraft, while four additional engines will be kept as reserves with the maintenance teams of the Royal Air Force.
The manufacturing process was completed in the fourth week of last July, indicating that working in the production of the aircraft itself amounted to very advanced stages. Estimates indicate that the first Moroccan fighter of this model appears at the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026 at the latest.
The Moroccan demand included additional equipment along with engines, with the aim of enhancing technical and logistical preparations to receive new aircraft. In addition to the backup engines, a large number of extra equipment was requested, led by advanced JHMCS helmets (or Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System), where Morocco requested 40 helmets to equip 25 aircraft, indicating the availability of five backup helmets used when needed, taking into account that the new fleet includes aircraft One and dual seat. 26 AESA AN/APG-83 SABR radars were also requested, i.e. with a number of aircraft in addition to a single backup radar, in addition to a backup computer and other equipment of a technical and operational nature.
These aircraft, as soon as they enter service, will make the Royal Moroccan Air Force the only African operator for the most advanced F-16 copies, equipped with a fifth-generation radar and armament systems are among the most dangerous in their class. These systems include long-range AIM-120C-8 missiles, which have a combat range of 180 km, and SDB smart bombs with a range of about 110 km, in addition to Harbon anti-ship missiles with a range of 180 km, as well as super-3 heavy fortifications of GBU-31 Its maximum range is 120 km, along with the various ammunition and missiles that Moroccan F-16 fighters are in service.
The SC
INT'L MOD
- Thread starter
- #70
For the past few days, Moroccan media has been boiling around the French fighting aircraft. The Dassault Aviation Rafale F4 is now clearly seen as the natural successor of Mirage F1ch/EH modernized almost 20 years ago.
Indeed between June 23 and July 5, 2025 included the Marathon 25 exercise during which the Moroccan pilots were able to approach very closely the bursts of the 4th fighter squadron. It is even said that two local generals have stolen back on Rafale B. A unique opportunity for the Royal Forces Air to get an idea of an airplane around which they have been running for almost two years.
Standard F4.3 with SCALP/Meteor/AASF
Most likely Just leaks to pressure the Americans toward the F-35 ... the next fighters for the Moroccan Air Force are F-35s
The French will win the submarine deal though!
Indeed between June 23 and July 5, 2025 included the Marathon 25 exercise during which the Moroccan pilots were able to approach very closely the bursts of the 4th fighter squadron. It is even said that two local generals have stolen back on Rafale B. A unique opportunity for the Royal Forces Air to get an idea of an airplane around which they have been running for almost two years.
Standard F4.3 with SCALP/Meteor/AASF
Most likely Just leaks to pressure the Americans toward the F-35 ... the next fighters for the Moroccan Air Force are F-35s
The French will win the submarine deal though!
The SC
INT'L MOD
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- #72
Spain's withdrawal from the "F-35" deal opens the door for Morocco to own the stealth fighter
August 14, 2025
The military scene in the western Mediterranean is witnessing outstanding changes after Spain announced permanently abandoning the purchase of the American F-35 fighters, in a move that opens widely for Morocco to conclude a deal that would make it the first Arab and African country to own this developed fighter.
In the western Mediterranean, new security equations are formed, as Spain officially announced that it would give up the purchase of American F-35 fighters, preferring to join European defense projects, while international reports are suggested that Morocco is close to concluding a historical deal with Washington to acquire this advanced plane. Such a step, if completed, the balance of power in the region may change, amid questions about the ability of the Moroccan economy to bear a cost of up to 17 billion dollars.
The sudden Spanish decision raised warnings in the military circles in Madrid, especially as Rabat advanced in its negotiations with the United States to obtain ghost fighters, at a time when Spain abandoned a $ 10 billion deal. Military experts believe that the "F-35" capabilities of hiding and vertical boot gives their owner a regional air superiority in the short term.
Morocco, despite the economic challenges, continues to develop its air force, especially after the deal that Algeria concluded at the beginning of the year to buy advanced Russian fighters. Israeli reports indicate that Rabat is signing an agreement with the company "Lockheed Martin" worth $ 17 billion to buy 32 fighters from the fifth generation. On the other hand, the Spanish government justifies its position by its desire to invest billions of euros in joint European defense programs, including a sixth generation fighter project.
In the regional scene, analysts believe that Morocco has greater chances of winning this deal, especially with Donald Trump's return to the White House, given the political support he had previously presented to the Moroccan position on the Sahara issue.
According to the Spanish media, the Spanish position may give Morocco an opportunity to achieve a qualitative leap in the field of air force, thanks to the advanced "F-35" capabilities to hide from the radars, carry out accurate long-term strikes, and integrate with modern American defense systems.
On the American side, it is likely that Washington may agree to provide Morocco with "F-35" because it is an old strategic ally, and to send a punitive message to Spain, which has not committed to increased its defensive spending according to NATO requirements.
The SC
INT'L MOD
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- #73
Rabat is considering the acquisition of a new batch of "Harpy" and "Harop" suicide drones
August 12, 2025
The Moroccan "Hespress" website reported that the Kingdom of Morocco is considering the acquisition of a new batch of "Harpy" and "Harop" suicide bomber, Capable to strike strategic goals at distances of up to 1,000 km according to various copies, in a deal valued at about 120 million dollars.
According to Israeli media, Rabat is studying a request that may amount to about 120 million dollars, which may equal between 200 and 300 aircraft, according to the chosen formations.
These systems entered the service in limited numbers in the Royal Armed Forces in 2022, and gained wide fame after using them in several recent disputes. "Harpy" and "Harop", which are developed by the Israeli Air Industries Company (IAI), is part of the category of mobile ammunition, also known as "suicide bombers". Harpy is characterized by being dedicated to the tasks of suppressing hostile air defenses (SEAD) through radio frequency sensors (RF) to monitor and destroy radars, while Harop represents a newer version that relies on an optical system that expands from the list of possible targets, making it for more diverse attack.
The operational range of these aircraft ranges between 500 and 1000 km, which gives them the ability to target high -value targets, whether military or economic. "Harop" is an occasion to strike advanced air defense systems, while Harpy is characterized by its ability to work day and night against strategic infrastructure.
As for the shortest tasks, between 50 and 300 km, the Royal Armed Forces use other types of lower -cost mobile munitions, such as "Skyx" and "Sky Strike", which are produced locally and are used to flood hostile defenses or destroy a wide range of tactical targets, such as tanks, armored vehicles, artillery and field fortifications.
This possible demand comes within a comprehensive strategy that combines qualitative purchases and industrial development within Morocco. The Israeli company "Blue Bird Aero Systems", which is affiliated with IAI, has made an important partnership with Rabat that includes the creation of a factory to produce different models of drones, such as "SpyX", "ThunderB" and "WanderB". Although the production of "Harpy" and "Harop" is not confirmed locally, the presence of this factory opens the way for technology transfer and increased national industrialization.
It is noteworthy that South Korea, according to the Israeli press, also concluded a deal to buy "Harpy" and "Harop" aircraft at about 200 million dollars to update its offensive capabilities.
The SC
INT'L MOD
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- #74
Morocco is close to possessing F-35 fighters: re-drawing the balance of power in North Africa
Specialized sources indicate that Rabat is close to signing an agreement to acquire 32 fighters worth up to $ 17 billion over a period of 45 years, including purchase, technical support and maintenance, to become the first Arab and African country to occupy this advanced style, after the Israeli green light was given the passage of the deal.
During the IDEX International Fair, Lockheed Martin made a detailed presentation of the Moroccan delegation on how to integrate the F-35 into the Royal Air Force fleet and enhance its operational and intelligence capabilities. This deal is the culmination of the long update track that started in 2020 with Washington's approval to provide the Rabat with 24 F-16 Block 72 fighters, along with the current fleet update to the F-16V standard equipped with APG-83 radar, electronic warfare systems and advanced targeting incubators.
Morocco also strengthened its intelligence capabilities by modifying the GULFSTREAM G550 with Israeli regulations, and the launch of new spy satellites to monitor the border and military activity. The Royal Air Force plans to achieve operational integration between the F-16 and F-35 by 2035, supported by joint training protocols with NATO, which raises the level of Moroccan air deterrence in an unprecedented way.
The SC
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- #75
Morocco make the H225M deal: ten helicopters to enhance the capabilities of the Air Force
The Kingdom of Morocco signed a military deal with the French company Airbus Helicopters to acquire 10 H225M Caracal multi-role helicopters, at a sensitive regional time characterized by escalating tensions and an accelerated effort by Rabat and Algeria to enhance air and defense capabilities.
The H225M "Caracal" is a military version of the EC725 developed within the "Super Puma/Koger" family, and is characterized by a large range and high lifting capacity to operate in various environments. According to Airbus, the flight range with standard tanks is about 920 km and reaches approximately 1,253 km with additional tanks, with the ability to refuel in the air via a probe, which expands the scope of operations far behind the lines of engagement. The helicopter is based on two Safran (Turbomeca) Makila 2A1 engines, and its maximum speed reaches about 324 km/h, with a recommended flight speed of approximately 262 km/h, allowing reliable performance in harsh climatic conditions, whether in desert or mountainous terrain. The new fleet will be equipped with optical/thermal and radar monitoring systems, advanced communications equipment and night work capabilities, in addition to a self-protection package that includes warning and jamming means, and the ability to arm the side with 7.62 and 12.7 mm machine guns, depending on mission requirements.
The Kingdom of Morocco signed a military deal with the French company Airbus Helicopters to acquire 10 H225M Caracal multi-role helicopters, at a sensitive regional time characterized by escalating tensions and an accelerated effort by Rabat and Algeria to enhance air and defense capabilities.
The H225M "Caracal" is a military version of the EC725 developed within the "Super Puma/Koger" family, and is characterized by a large range and high lifting capacity to operate in various environments. According to Airbus, the flight range with standard tanks is about 920 km and reaches approximately 1,253 km with additional tanks, with the ability to refuel in the air via a probe, which expands the scope of operations far behind the lines of engagement. The helicopter is based on two Safran (Turbomeca) Makila 2A1 engines, and its maximum speed reaches about 324 km/h, with a recommended flight speed of approximately 262 km/h, allowing reliable performance in harsh climatic conditions, whether in desert or mountainous terrain. The new fleet will be equipped with optical/thermal and radar monitoring systems, advanced communications equipment and night work capabilities, in addition to a self-protection package that includes warning and jamming means, and the ability to arm the side with 7.62 and 12.7 mm machine guns, depending on mission requirements.
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