Morocco Seeks to Upgrade Military with Advanced Chinese Wing Loong 2 Drones

Morocco has already used the Wing Loong 1 received from the United Arab Emirates to carry out air strikes against the Polisario Front militia during the Guerguerat crisis. But in view of the obsolescence of these aircraft and to strengthen its air force, the kingdom plans to acquire the improved version of this Chinese drone, the Wing Loong 2.

Designed and manufactured by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the Wing Loong 2 offers better flight and payload capabilities. It has a maximum payload capacity of 400 kg and can carry up to 12 laser-guided bombs or missiles. It can fly for 20 hours and reach a maximum speed of 370 km/h, according to Defensa.

Morocco has signed a contract with Turkey for the acquisition of 36 Bayraktar TB2 drones, of which it has already received a first batch of 25 units. In recent years, the kingdom has diversified its sources of armaments by purchasing drones, missiles and other military equipment from the United States, Israel, China and Turkey.