Algeria and the Morocco continue their arms race with increasing intensity. In recent years, the two countries have increased their acquisitions of sophisticated military equipment: drones, air defense systems, battle tanks and warships. Algeria is particularly banking on its naval force with a fleet of modern submarines, while Morocco is strengthening its land and air capabilities through partnerships with the UNITED STATES et Israel. This armament dynamic is profoundly transforming the balance of forces in the region, attracting the attention of international observers.
A rivalry centered on the Algerian-Moroccan border
The admiral Juan Rodríguez Garata former senior officer in the Spanish Navy who became a defense analyst, provides a detailed analysis of the real challenges of this rearmament. According to him, contrary to the concerns expressed in Spainthe Morocco does not constitute a direct military threat to Madrid. The Cherifian kingdom’s choices of military equipment reveal its real concerns : the border with Algeria and the question of Western Sahara. The acquisition of long-range rocket launchers, particularly suited to combat in desert areas, illustrates this strategic orientation. Likewise, the purchase of anti-submarine frigates by the Morocco directly responds to Algerian submarine capacity.
Tensions with Spain: a diversion strategy
The Cherifian kingdom certainly uses pressure tactics towards Spainparticularly around the enclaves of Ceuta et Melilla. These maneuvers, described as “hybrid warfare” by the admiral competitionsinclude the manipulation of migration flows and occasional territorial claims. However, these actions are more of a domestic policy strategy aimed at diverting the attention of the Moroccan population from their daily difficulties. The absence of submarines in the Moroccan arsenal constitutes, according to the Spanish expert, additional proof of the limited nature of the kingdom’s military ambitions towards Europe. This weapon, considered “the weapon of the weak par excellence”, would be essential for any nation with maritime expansionist aims.
The imperative of a European defense culture
The admiral competitions underlines the need for Europeans to develop an acute awareness of defense issues. It recalls the maxim of Vegetius, Roman strategist: “If you want peace, prepare for war.” This age-old wisdom takes on particular resonance in the current context, where certain actors attempt to exploit divisions within NATO. According to him, Moroccan claims on Ceuta and Melilla, like the debates on the financing of European defense, contribute to this dynamic of destabilization. For the former officer, the answer lies in a better understanding of international geopolitical realities. European citizens must look beyond their borders to understand the importance of a credible defense that guarantees peace. The example of the weaknesses revealed by various recent conflicts demonstrates the relevance of this warning.
Morocco
