Lockheed Martin Explores Moroccan Arms Production Facility

Last week, a high-level delegation from Lockheed Martin led by retired Brigadier General Joseph Rank, Executive Director for Africa and Saudi Arabia, was in Morocco to discuss partnerships in the field of supply chains. The delegation also met with Moroccan officials and visited industrial companies in Casablanca such as TDM Maroc, Sabca Maroc, Exellia Maroc and Collins Aerospace RFM, in order to deepen the integration of Moroccan suppliers into global supply chains, increase local content within its platforms, and strengthen industrial and manufacturing capabilities within the kingdom.

"Our relationship with Morocco reflects a shared commitment to innovation, security and economic progress. As we continue to deepen our cooperation, we aim to develop Morocco’s defense capabilities, expand the scope of local expertise, and also contribute to long-term industrial and economic growth," said Joseph Rank.

The Lockheed Martin delegation also traveled to Rabat, where it met with senior government and military officials. On the agenda: exploring new opportunities for capacity building, workforce development and continued alignment with Morocco’s goals to build a more sustainable defense industry.

Lockheed Martin’s partnership with Morocco dates back 50 years. It began in 1974 with the delivery of the first C-130H tactical transport aircraft to the Royal Moroccan Air Force. Today, this partnership has evolved considerably. Thanks to this growing partnership, Moroccan pilots now operate Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Fighting Falcon, the Moroccan army uses Sikorsky helicopters, advanced radar systems and integrated air defense technologies, all bearing the Lockheed Martin brand.

Morocco has massively invested in the creation of an autonomous defense ecosystem, seeing it as both a security imperative and an economic catalyst, it is noted.