Morocco and Spain Modernize Air Forces in Regional Arms Race

The Royal Air Force is preparing to receive 30 Mirage 2000-9 fighters from the United Arab Emirates. France, the manufacturer of these aircraft, which had opposed this transfer, has recently given its agreement after a easing of diplomatic tensions with Rabat. The Moroccan air force should receive its first Mirage 2000-9s in 2027, the date at which the Emirates will receive the 80 Rafale fighters acquired from France, reports El Español.

Meanwhile, Spain plans to acquire more Eurofighter fighters, considered one of the most advanced fourth-generation fighters like the Dassault Mirage 2000-9 that Morocco is about to receive. Last September, the Spanish government approved the purchase of 45 units of the Tanche 4+ version of the Eurofighter, the most modern currently available. These aircraft, whose delivery is scheduled for 2026, are intended to replace the obsolete F-18s.

The Mirage 2000-9 and the Eurofighter have differences on all points. The Mirage 2000-9 "resembles the new generation Rafale fighter", according to its manufacturer Dassault. It is equipped with the RDY-3 radar, night vision goggles, navigation and infrared detection systems, and the Talios targeting module. As for the Eurofighter, it is equipped with two Eurojet EJ200 low-bypass engines and can "exchange information in all areas and on all platforms," informs its manufacturer.

15.96 meters long and 10.95 meters wide, the Eurofighter has an empty weight of 11,000 kilograms. It can reach a maximum speed of 2,495 km/h and an altitude of over 19,000 meters. Its range is 3 hours. For its part, the Mirage measures 14.36 meters long with a wingspan of 9.13 meters. It weighs 7,500 kilograms empty and has a single Snecma engine. The aircraft can reach a maximum speed of over 2,300 km/h and an altitude of 17,000 meters. Data on its range are not specified.

The Mirage 2000-9 is compatible with the Black Shaheen