Morocco Acquires Advanced Israeli Spy Satellites to Boost Surveillance Capabilities

Morocco had indeed ordered two Ofek-type surveillance satellites from Israel, reveal sources interested in military information, citing a report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The Israeli manufacturer Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) will manufacture Ofek-13 in the kingdom. It is an observation satellite with a synthetic aperture radar and is equipped with very advanced capabilities. It is the most advanced of its kind, with unique radar surveillance capabilities.

These satellites are known for their intelligence and security capabilities, says the Arab Defense website. The Ofek-13 satellite has an accuracy of up to 0.5 meters. Built for the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), it was launched on March 29, 2023, from the Palmachim air base in Israel using a Shavit-2 rocket. It is operated by Unit 9900. This type of satellite can emit a microwave radar signal towards the Earth’s surface to detect its physical characteristics.

These satellites will allow Morocco to develop and expand its space capabilities, after the launch of two satellites in 2017 and 2018. Morocco will have to use the satellites in areas such as surveillance and climate change monitoring, agricultural use, defense, aviation, and Internet access, but also for reconnaissance purposes, helping to fight illegal immigration, smuggling, crime and terrorism.