European shipbuilders compete for Moroccan submarine contract

Morocco’s navy is on a mission to acquire two military submarines, igniting a fierce competition among European shipbuilders. Leading the charge are France’s Naval Group and Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), each aggressively pitching their advanced submarine designs to secure this high-stakes contract with Rabat.

Naval Group’s Push with the Scorpène-Class

France’s Naval Group is pulling out all the stops, offering Morocco two Scorpène-class submarines while also vying for the concession to operate a new shipyard in Casablanca. According to Naval Group, the Scorpène is “incredibly stealthy and autonomous,” boasting an adaptable design that can be tailored to Morocco’s specific naval needs. This cutting-edge submarine can integrate the latest innovations, such as Lithium-ion batteries, enhancing its endurance and technological edge. The Scorpène also features an integrated French combat system and a fully automated centralized platform control system, ensuring high diving safety with a smaller crew—making it ideal for coastal waters.

Naval Group’s relationship with Morocco is well-established. Since 2021, the company has been in talks with Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces (FAR) about a potential submarine order. Its track record includes delivering a multi-mission frigate to Morocco in 2014, cementing its presence in the country. By 2022, Naval Group emerged as the sole contender to manage the future Casablanca shipyard, positioning it as a frontrunner in this competition.

ThyssenKrupp’s High-Tech Alternatives

Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems is not backing down, bringing its own impressive offerings to the table. TKMS is promoting the HDW Class Dolphin AIP submarine and the HDW Class 209/1400mod, both renowned for their efficiency and advanced engineering. The Dolphin, as described on the TKMS website, delivers “high operational value” with an integrated fuel cell system that significantly boosts submerged endurance. It also features a state-of-the-art combat system and a versatile weapon expulsion system capable of launching torpedoes, missiles, and mines. The HDW Class 209/1400mod, while an older design, remains a reliable and proven option, adding depth to Germany’s bid.

Beyond Europe: Russia, Greece, and Portugal in the Mix

Morocco hasn’t limited its options to France and Germany. The country has also explored offers from Russia, Greece, and Portugal. Russia is pushing its Amur 1650, a fourth-generation diesel-electric submarine that has been on the table since 2013. As of 2024, Russia remains hopeful for a breakthrough sale to Morocco. Meanwhile, Greece and Portugal have pitched second-hand submarines, providing cost-effective alternatives. The Scorpène-class, developed by Naval Group in partnership with Spain’s Navantia, stands as a direct rival to the Amur 1650. Unlike the Amur, which has yet to secure a buyer, the Scorpène has already been adopted by the navies of Chile, Malaysia, Brazil, and India, proving its global appeal and reliability.

A Long-Standing Ambition Amid Regional Rivalry

Morocco’s pursuit of submarines is not a sudden whim. As Spanish outlet El Confidencial Digital noted, acquiring submarines is “an old aspiration of the Royal Navy” that has eluded the country despite repeated attempts. This latest push comes with added urgency due to regional dynamics, particularly Morocco’s rivalry with neighboring Algeria. The Algerian Navy has operated a formidable submarine fleet for decades, including Kilo-class submarines like Messali el Hadj and Akram Pacha. These Project 877EKM and Kilo 636-class vessels are equipped with Klub-S (Kalibr) anti-ship missiles and boast rapid torpedo reloading times of just 15 seconds. Algeria made history as the first Arabic navy to launch cruise missiles from submarines to ground targets, showcasing its capabilities through live-fire exercises. With Africa’s largest submarines in its arsenal, Algeria’s naval strength underscores the strategic importance of Morocco’s acquisition.

High Stakes and Strategic Implications

As Morocco weighs its options, the decision carries profound implications. Acquiring advanced submarines—whether the stealthy Scorpène, the endurance-focused Dolphin, or even the Amur 1650—would significantly enhance the Royal Navy’s ability to secure vital maritime interests. Beyond bolstering its fleet, the choice of supplier could shape Morocco’s defense industry, fostering long-term partnerships and technological development. A deal with Naval Group, for instance, could solidify France’s role in Morocco’s naval infrastructure through the Casablanca shipyard. A German or Russian contract, meanwhile, might diversify Morocco’s strategic alliances.

With the competition heating up, Morocco stands at a crossroads. Its final decision will not only determine the future of its naval capabilities but also signal its ambitions as a rising strategic power in North Africa.

Meanwhile, in 2022, the Royal Moroccan Navy announced plans to acquire at least two new anti-submarine and maritime patrol turboprop aircraft to enhance its maritime capabilities.

The new aircraft will help protect Morocco’s interests in the 81,000-square-nautical mile Exclusive Economic Zone. Given Morocco’s 2,952 km coastline, and strategic position overseeing the Strait of Gibraltar, along with Spain and the United Kingdom.

Morocco intends to keep it’s arch-rival Algeria’s six Kilo-class submarine in check, since it does not possess any submarine of it’s own.

Two airframes, Italian Leonardo ATR 72 MPA, and Airbus C-295 MPA are currently being considered by Morocco. Evaluation for both maritime patrol aircraft will be carried out in the next few months.