Key information
- Morocco is set to become the first Arab and African country to acquire the cutting-edge F-35 stealth aircraft.
- The deal, valued at more than $17 billion over 45 years, will significantly boost the capabilities of the Royal Moroccan Air Force.
- The acquisition could prompt neighboring countries, such as Spain, to reevaluate their defense strategies and seek to acquire similar capabilities.
Morocco is moving closer to a potential deal with the United States to purchase 32 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets. This agreement, valued at more than $17 billion over 45 years, would make Morocco the first Arab and African country to acquire these cutting-edge stealth aircraft. This acquisition would significantly strengthen the capabilities of the Royal Moroccan Air Force, currently focused on fourth-generation F-16 aircraft.
Morocco’s interest in the F-35 is driven by several factors, including increased tensions with Algeria. Algeria’s recent agreement with Russia to acquire 14 Su-57 stealth fighters is believed to have influenced Morocco’s decision to seek similar capabilities. This rivalry goes beyond military acquisitions and encompasses the Western Sahara conflict, where Algeria supports the Polisario Front independence movement, a position Morocco opposes.
International acquisitions and diplomatic implications
The Moroccan government has engaged in negotiations with the United States since 2020, seeking help from Israel to facilitate discussions. A meeting between Israeli and Moroccan defense ministers in 2021 is seen as crucial to moving these talks forward.
Other Arab countries have encountered difficulties acquiring F-35s. Turkey’s purchase was halted due to sanctions over its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile system, while the United Arab Emirates suspended a deal citing technical requirements and cost concerns. Qatar has expressed interest, but U.S. policy toward Israel’s military advantage has hampered progress. Saudi Arabia has expressed interest since 2012 but has not reached a deal, facing obstacles related to regional stability, human rights and Israel’s security interests.
-The regional arms race
Morocco’s potential F-35 acquisition highlights a broader trend in the regional arms race in North Africa. This development could prompt neighboring countries, such as Spain, to reassess their defense strategies and possibly seek advanced aircraft like the F-35 to maintain strategic balance. The introduction of these sophisticated weapons systems could have a significant impact on the military balance, increase tensions and influence diplomatic relations in the region.
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