US Approves $825 Million Sale of Stinger Missiles to Morocco

On April 15, the U.S. State Department announced its approval for a military sale to Morocco. This involves the purchase of 600 FIM-92K Stinger Block I missiles, along with related equipment for the Royal Armed Forces (FAR), for an estimated amount of 825 million dollars (about 7.7 billion dirhams). An official notification from the U.S. Department of Defense was published in the Official Journal of the U.S. Congress.

On April 26, Michael F. Miller, Director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, sent a letter to the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, James E. Risch, to inform him of the sale. This acquisition includes 24 M134 launcher devices, battery blocks, test tools, spare parts and logistical equipment, comprehensive technical assistance, training of Moroccan troops... Known for its accuracy at low altitude, the FIM-92K Stinger Block I system provides a lightweight and easily deployable air defense capability.

"The Kingdom of Morocco is able to provide a degree of protection comparable to that required by the U.S. government," the document relayed by Barlamane states. For the State Department, "this proposed sale will support U.S. foreign policy and national security by enhancing the security of a major non-NATO ally that plays a key role in political stability and economic progress in North Africa." Its realization depends on the U.S. Congress. The latter will first have to examine the Moroccan order.