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Economy

Lockheed Martin Expands Defense Manufacturing Footprint in Morocco

Wednesday 11 December 2024 - 12:50 By: Dakir Madiha

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Lockheed Martin has significantly strengthened its presence in Morocco as part of its ongoing efforts to boost defense partnerships in the North African region. This year marks a milestone for the company, celebrating 50 years of collaboration with Morocco, beginning with the delivery of the first C-130H aircraft to the Royal Moroccan Air Force in 1974. The company’s recent activities include site visits to key industrial facilities in Morocco and new defense agreements, showcasing a deepening commitment to local manufacturing and economic growth.

Led by Tim Cahill, President of Missiles and Fire Control, and Joseph Rank, CEO for Africa and Saudi Arabia, Lockheed Martin executives visited aerospace facilities in Tangiers, including their long-time partner Eaton-Souriau Tangiers and potential new collaborator Ausare of the Mecachrome Group. These visits, coordinated in partnership with the Moroccan Agency for Investment and Export Development (AMDIE), reflect the company’s ongoing push to expand its operations in Morocco, which have grown steadily over the years.

The company’s involvement in Morocco extends beyond mere sales, including key local investments. One such significant move was the establishment of Maintenance Aero Maroc (MAM) in 2022. This joint venture, focused on Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services for F-16 and C-130H aircraft, bolsters the region's aerospace infrastructure and creates more local employment opportunities. Eaton-Souriau Tangiers, which has been part of Lockheed Martin's supply chain for nearly two decades, manufactures critical aerospace components, further enhancing Morocco’s aerospace sector.

In addition to the MAM initiative, Lockheed Martin recently secured a $227 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense to supply Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to Morocco. These surface-to-surface missiles, capable of reaching ranges up to 300 kilometers with precise accuracy, are scheduled for delivery by December 30, 2028. This deal follows Morocco’s previous acquisition of HIMARS missile systems, valued at approximately $524 million, and the anticipated delivery of its first F-16 Block 72 aircraft in early 2027.

“Lockheed Martin’s long history of collaboration with Morocco reflects our shared commitment to advancing defense capabilities, fostering local industrial growth, and creating new economic opportunities,” said Cahill during the visit.

Through such initiatives, Lockheed Martin is playing a vital role in Morocco's defense modernization efforts, contributing to the country’s growing stature as a strategic partner in global defense networks.