In 2023, Morocco has become one of the major players in Africa in terms of military drones, with a fleet of 223 devices, making it the second country on the continent after Egypt (267 drones). Morocco, however, is not content with this leading position and plans to further expand its capacity in 2025, by acquiring new models of cutting-edge drones, including the Turkish Bayraktar Akinci, a high altitude and long endurance drone, thus strengthening its strategic position in the region.
This expansion is an integral part of the modernization of the Royal Armed Forces (FAR), and testifies to Morocco’s ambition to become a major power in the air military domain in Africa. These efforts are part of a dynamic of acquisition and strategic partnerships with countries such as Turkey, China, and Israel, which allow the kingdom to equip itself with cutting-edge technologies to face contemporary defense challenges.
Moroccan military drones, such as the WanderB and ThunderB purchased from Israeli company BlueBird Aero Systems, are already used for surveillance and air defense missions. Furthermore, the kingdom has also launched local drone production projects, notably through Aerodrive Engineering Services (AES), which developed the Atlas Eastar I. This fully autonomous drone is intended for complex missions, and its production could reach up to 1,000 drones per year, marking a turning point towards self-sufficiency in the country’s defense industries.
In 2025, Morocco is preparing to further strengthen its fleet with the acquisition of the Bayraktar Akinci. This drone, designed for surveillance and strike missions, stands out for its ability to carry payloads of up to 1,500 kg and to carry out high-precision strikes thanks to its AESA radar. It will thus bring increased scope and operational capabilities to the Royal Air Forces, allowing Morocco to carry out more complex missions in the fight against external threats.
Additionally, Morocco continues to strengthen its ties with China, with the planned acquisition of the Wing Loong X model, an advanced combat drone. This drone is designed for long-range strike missions and was unveiled at the Paris Air Show in 2023, then officially presented at the China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in November 2023.
These acquisitions and strategic partnerships consolidate Morocco’s position among African leaders in the field of military drones, while strengthening its surveillance, defense and strike capabilities. This also makes it possible to maintain an advantageous position on the region’s geopolitical and security issues, particularly in terms of border protection and the fight against terrorism.
