Elbit Systems, an Israeli company, has announced its plans to manufacture defence systems for Morocco’s armed forces at its upcoming production sites in Morocco. In addition, Elbit will cater to the defence needs of various African countries. The company’s recent announcement includes the establishment of two sites in Morocco, with reports suggesting that one of the facilities may be located in the Casablanca region, although this information has yet to be confirmed.
Morocco is actively seeking a more diversified range of Israeli weapon systems. Since the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020, Morocco has emerged as a significant client of Israeli defence industries. The evolving requirements can be attributed to ongoing tensions between Morocco and Algeria, despite UN mediation. The dispute primarily revolves around the status of Western Sahara, where Morocco’s sovereignty claims have gained international recognition.
With the need for advanced weapon systems, Morocco’s newly established relations with Israel have presented lucrative opportunities for Rabat. In February, a $500 million deal was concluded between Israel and Morocco for the Barak MX air and missile defence system, manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). The Barak-MX is a versatile modular defence system designed to counter both missile and aircraft threats. It can be deployed on marine platforms as well as on land. This agreement with Elbit Systems aligns with Morocco’s broader efforts to bolster its readiness for potential conflicts with neighbouring Algeria. Subsequent to the initial agreement, Morocco expressed interest in acquiring a comprehensive list of Israeli-made military systems. In a recent transaction, Morocco purchased 150 eVTOL drones from Israeli company Bluebird and is currently evaluating additional Israeli-made unmanned air systems. The range of UAV types has expanded since IAI acquired 50% of Bluebird, with the initial contract also incorporating some production within Morocco.
Morocco has requested a wide array of advanced defence systems from Israel, including UAVs, radars, communication systems, and early warning systems. Israeli sources indicate that Morocco is now seeking more systems, including advanced offensive capabilities. Elbit Systems’ decision to establish two production sites in the country is a direct response to this growing demand. Initially, the systems will be assembled at these sites, with plans to expand and include production lines in the future.
Late last year, Elbit Systems was awarded an approximately $70 million contract in June to supply “Alinet” Electronic Warfare (EW) AND Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) solutions to Morocco in a contract that will be executed over a period of two and a half years.
Under the contract, Elbit Systems will provide ground-based EW and Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) units equipped with Electronic Support Measures, Electronic Counter Measures as well as Command and Control systems. These units will generate a comprehensive passive air and ground picture and provide an electronic order of battle, enabling effective responses to both aerial and land-based threats.
