Morocco ready to acquire Lockheed Martin’s F-35 stealth fighters

Morocco is pursuing a policy of modernizing its military aviation. It has its sights set on the F-35 stealth fighters. According to Africa Intelligence, the kingdom has obtained the necessary approvals from the US authorities, in compliance with the legal framework known as the "Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge", which requires the United States to preserve Israel’s military superiority in the region, and the discussions have reached an advanced stage. Israel would not have expressed any opposition to Morocco’s acquisition of these 5th generation aircraft. Moreover, Tel Aviv could, in a limited way, provide technical support or intelligence exchanges.

The purchase of the F-35 by Morocco will be of great use to the Royal Air Force. This fighter offers characteristics that transform the operational profile of the Moroccan aviation: increased stealth, integrated avionics and the ability to coordinate in real time with other air and ground units. It is a tool adapted to a variety of missions, ranging from strategic surveillance to airspace control, as well as support for ground operations. This technology could redefine the balance of power in the Mediterranean and North Africa, weaken the military balance and trigger a regional escalation.

The imminent arrival of the F-35s in Morocco is already worrying Spain. This is leading to discussions in Madrid on the possible consequences for the military balance in the western Mediterranean, but also on the geopolitical implications of this advance in a strategic region for Europe and the Maghreb, according to Aviaciondigital. The Iberian Peninsula has decided to strengthen its fleet with Eurofighter Typhoons and to invest in the European FCAS program.