Morocco is set to make military and diplomatic history by becoming the first African country to acquire the fifth generation stealth aircraft F-35 Lightning II. This strategic agreement, valued at more than $17 billion over 45 yearswill position the Kingdom at the forefront of the region’s air capabilities, significantly strengthening the effectiveness and reach of the Moroccan Air Force.
In a geopolitical context marked by regional rivalries, notably with Algeria, Morocco is once again demonstrating its ability to be part of a long-term strategic vision. The choice to invest in the F-35 demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty, while maintaining technological superiority in the face of potential threats.
The F-35s, known for their stealththeir advanced weapons systems and their intelligence capabilities, mark a radical evolution compared to the F-16s currently in service with the Moroccan forces. These combat aircraft will reinforce Morocco’s strategic deterrenceplacing it at a level comparable to the world’s major air powers.
A hard blow for Algeria:
On the other side of the borders, the Algerian military regime, entangled in smaller acquisitions, is blatantly behind in technology. Algeria recently announced the purchase of 14 Su-57 fighters from Russia, a choice which, despite grandiose announcements, remains far from matching the capabilities of the F-35.
The contrast is stark: while Morocco strengthens its strategic alliances with reliable partners like the United States and Israel, Algeria continues to be mired in outdated and often precarious relationships with suppliers like Russia. This difference illustrates not only the Algerian regime’s inability to innovate, but also its growing diplomatic isolation on the international scene.
The Moroccan acquisition is the result of careful negotiations begun in 2020, with support from Israel et from the United Arab Emirates, who played a key role in the discussions. This partnership demonstrates the pragmatism of the Kingdom, which relies on solid alliances to achieve its strategic objectives.
-Morocco thus asserts itself as a model of proactive and effective diplomacy, unlike its Algerian neighbor, stuck in hostile postures and questionable strategic choices.
By investing in the F-35, Morocco is once again showing its ambition to become an essential regional power. This strategic choice, which combines technological innovation and strong diplomatic alliances, reinforces the image of a Kingdom focused on the future, at once stable, visionary and resolutely modern.
Abderrazzak Boussaid/Le7tv
