Morocco’s Israeli Arms Purchases Extend to Drones and Strike Capabilities
Morocco’s military purchases from Israel also include strike capabilities. Drones, artillery and intelligence complement air defense, according to an analysis published by JNS on October 1.
Rabat is acquiring both defensive and offensive capabilities, a Western observer told JNS. The observer describes cooperation that also covers sensors, surveillance and reconnaissance.
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Barak systems protect against aerial threats, while drones and artillery strengthen reconnaissance and strike capabilities. JNS specifically mentions Hermes drones, ATMOS howitzers and PULS rocket launchers.
This cooperation has changed the kingdom’s mix of suppliers. According to SIPRI, Israel accounted for 24% of Morocco’s major arms imports by volume over the 2021–2025 period. It ranked behind the United States, at 60%, but ahead of France, at 10%.
Cooperation that goes beyond arms purchases
The analysis also discusses how these purchases are financed. The observer says some of the funds come from the Gulf. The observer sees this as giving the cooperation a regional dimension, beyond the relationship between Rabat and Israel.
Military exchanges have had a formal framework since November 2021, under an agreement covering intelligence, training and logistical support. Equipment orders are part of this closer relationship.
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