Polisario Separatists Allegedly Using Iranian Rockets Against Morocco

Polisario militiamen would be using "Iranian-origin Arash Standard rockets similar to the 9M22U rockets, a Soviet model widely used in multiple rocket launcher systems (MLRS)," says a defense researcher, quoted by Barlamane.com, adding that "these two types of rockets share common characteristics, but have notable differences in both design and performance."

The Arash Standard rockets have a range of about 120 to 250 kilometers, while the range of the 9M22U rockets is about 20 to 40 kilometers. The former can carry heavier payloads (up to 50 kilograms) than the latter (about 22 kilograms), showing their superiority in terms of impact on the target. Both rockets have a multiple launch system, but unlike the 9M22U, the Arash Standard are often mounted on more mobile vehicles, allowing greater flexibility and long-range strikes.

From a technical and strategic point of view, differences are also observed. While the Arash Standard rockets have a more sophisticated guidance system, with GPS correction, allowing more targeted strikes, the 9M22U have an inertial or entirely ballistic guidance system.

The use of Arash Standard rockets by the Polisario, if verified, is further proof that Iran is providing weapons to the separatists, with the complicity of Algeria. For several years, Morocco has repeatedly denounced the logistical support of this country to the Sahrawi separatist movement. Iran is said to have provided the Polisario with weapons of mass destruction, including long-range missiles, anti-aircraft systems and rockets, through its embassy in Algiers, as well as tactical training and strategic advice. Its objective is to support extremist armed groups in the Maghreb in order to destabilize countries allied with the United States, such as Morocco.