Maintenance of F-16s and production of 58 Tejas aircraft: the details of the Indian mega-project in Morocco

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) company plans to open this industrial complex near the Ben Guerir air base as early as 2027. In a first phase, the unit will be dedicated to maintenance and major overhaul work on the F-16 Block 50/52 fighters currently in service. This project marks a strategic acceleration of military cooperation between Rabat and New Delhi.

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From 2028 onwards, the factory will move to the next stage with the local assembly of the Indian multi-role fighter LCA Tejas. According to MenaDefense, Morocco is thus becoming the first international customer for this aircraft. The Kingdom has ordered 58 units in the form of assembly kits, including 48 single-seat MK1A equipped with AESA radars and 10 two-seat trainers, with an additional option for 24 aircraft.

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This industrial ramp-up aims to gradually replace the Mirage F-1s while strengthening the country’s defense autonomy. To prepare for this transition, Moroccan pilots and technicians are currently undergoing specialized training in India. If this program is officially confirmed, it would place Morocco in the select circle of nations with fighter jet production and assembly capabilities.