Morocco moves closer to acquiring submarines to strengthen its naval capabilities

Monday 27 July 2026 - 13:35

By: Azzat Manal

Morocco moves closer to acquiring submarines to strengthen its naval capabilities

Morocco appears to be moving closer to strengthening its naval capabilities with the possible acquisition of military submarines, according to a series of reports and statements from international defense industry players. Although Rabat has not officially announced a submarine procurement program, the issue has attracted growing attention among defense analysts and specialized media.

The potential acquisition would represent a major step in the modernization of the Royal Moroccan Navy and could significantly expand the country's ability to monitor and protect its maritime interests along both the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts.

German defense company TKMS, one of the world's leading submarine manufacturers, has previously described Morocco as a strategic market. However, the company has not publicly confirmed whether formal negotiations or an official request from Rabat are underway.

Several reports have suggested that Morocco could be considering conventional diesel-electric submarines, potentially involving European and Asian manufacturers. Among the platforms reportedly linked to the discussions are France's Scorpène-class submarines, produced by Naval Group, as well as several German submarine families developed by TKMS. South Korea has also emerged as a potential competitor through its KSS-III submarine program.

At this stage, however, no manufacturer has been officially selected, and there is no confirmed government announcement regarding the number of submarines, their specifications or the financial value of any potential contract.

The reported interest comes as Morocco continues to expand its maritime security capabilities. With thousands of kilometres of coastline and strategic commercial infrastructure, the country has important interests to protect, including major ports, shipping routes and energy facilities.

The Strait of Gibraltar is another key factor in Morocco's maritime strategy. Its strategic position between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean makes maritime surveillance and the protection of commercial traffic increasingly important.

A submarine fleet could provide the Royal Moroccan Navy with additional capabilities in intelligence gathering, maritime surveillance and underwater operations. Submarines are also valued for their ability to operate discreetly for extended periods, making them an important component of modern naval strategies.

Morocco has already invested heavily in upgrading its maritime forces, acquiring modern frigates, patrol vessels and advanced surveillance systems. The country has also explored unmanned technologies and systems designed to support anti-submarine warfare and mine detection, suggesting a broader effort to develop an integrated naval defense architecture.

The potential acquisition would also have an important regional dimension. Several Mediterranean and North African countries have invested in submarine fleets in recent years, including Algeria and Egypt. As a result, underwater capabilities have become an increasingly significant element of the region's evolving military balance.

Beyond defense considerations, a submarine procurement program could also support Morocco's ambitions to develop a stronger domestic maritime industry. The expansion of shipbuilding and maintenance infrastructure, including plans involving the Port of Casablanca, could eventually allow the country to increase its capacity to maintain large naval vessels and participate in industrial partnerships with international manufacturers.

The choice of a future submarine supplier would therefore likely depend on more than technical specifications. Factors such as technology transfer, crew training, long-term maintenance, logistical support and the potential involvement of Moroccan companies could all play an important role in any future negotiations.

For now, the project remains unconfirmed. There is no publicly announced contract or official decision regarding the type or number of submarines Morocco might acquire. Nevertheless, the growing interest surrounding the issue suggests that underwater naval capabilities could become an important part of the kingdom's long-term defense modernization strategy.

If the project eventually moves forward, the acquisition of submarines would mark a significant new chapter for the Royal Moroccan Navy, strengthening its ability to monitor maritime activity and protect the country's strategic and economic interests in an increasingly contested maritime environment.