Morocco Restricts Airspace Over Key Military Bases

No more overflights of several sensitive military bases including the Sidi Slimane air base (GMSL), that of Kénitra (GMMP) as well as the military airport of Salé (GMME) from March 31 to June 27, learns Barlamane after consulting an aeronautical notice (NOTAM). The Artillery Support Group (GSA) and the National Air Defense Center (CNDA), in connection with the air traffic control authorities of the mentioned bases, will have to ensure the management of the area concerned, materialized on satellite imagery by a large rectangular area. In addition to the restrictions, a ceiling of 5,000 feet above ground level is also imposed.

The reasons for the ban on overflying several sensitive military bases have not yet been communicated. But images circulated on social networks showing three vehicles, identified as TELs (Transporter Erector Launcher), devoid of their launch containers, suggest that Morocco is preparing to acquire this equipment which could be subject to a series of tests to validate their compatibility with Morocco’s operational requirements. This possible acquisition would therefore be at the origin of the measure.

Recently, partners of the United States Department of Defense (DoD) arrived at the military airport of Salé. They play a strategic role in the operational integration process of the air defense system, in direct connection with the deployment and commissioning of the Patriot battery (Phased Array Tracking Radar to Intercept on Target). The presence of this delegation should ensure the harmonization of interoperable capabilities and those of the defense systems in compliance with the standards of the United States Army (US Army) and its strategic partners.