Morocco Military Submarines Challenge Spain Mediterranean Strategy

For Rabat, the main challenge is to respond to its historic rival. Algeria indeed possesses a formidable fleet of six Russian Kilo-class submarines, armed with Kalibr land-attack missiles. To close this vulnerability gap, Morocco’s armed forces are diversifying their suppliers. Industry and Trade Minister Ryad Mezzour had displayed his interest in South Korean defense equipment during a visit to Seoul last April. The kingdom is thus studying the purchase of the KSS-III oceanic model, a formidable 3,705-ton submarine. Other options are currently on the table, ranging from French, German and Russian proposals, to second-hand units from Greece or Brazil.

On Bladi.net : Morocco Seeks First Submarines, Sparking Naval Race with Algeria

Although current social media agitation currently exceeds the real depth of commercial negotiations, this prospect is alarming Spain. Acquiring such a vessel would give Morocco increased control of the Strait of Gibraltar. The Moroccan navy could then patrol discreetly near the Canary Islands and directly off Spanish bases in Rota and Cartagena.

On Bladi.net : Morocco Races to Acquire Submarines, Bolstering Naval Defense Against Regional Threats

This unprecedented projection would radically change the situation for the Spanish military. Historically accustomed to operating without any submarine threat from the south, it would be forced to permanently divert its frigates and maritime patrol aircraft toward costly tracking missions to monitor Moroccan movements.