US Greenlights Funding for Cutting-Edge F-16 Jets for Morocco

The United States, Morocco's primary arms supplier, has taken a significant step in bolstering the North African nation's military prowess. On Thursday, the US Defense Department announced that Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, a prominent US-based aerospace company, secured a substantial contract worth $520.4 million. This contract is designated for the production of advanced F-16 jets equipped with the Viper Shield warfare suite.

The agreement encompasses foreign military sales of Block 70/72 F-16 aircraft, benefiting several countries, including Morocco, Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Bahrain. According to the Defense Department, the contract modification involves expanding the current long-lead materials, enabling the contractor to initiate production tasks. This ambitious project is slated for completion by June 30, 2028.

This development aligns with Morocco's ongoing efforts to enhance its military capabilities. Earlier this year, in March, the US Defense Security Cooperation confirmed the commencement of production for the advanced F-16 Viper fighter aircraft specifically for Morocco. The US reaffirms its position as Morocco's leading arms supplier, a relationship underscored by historical and strategic ties.

A report released in March by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) ranked Morocco as the 29th largest arms importer globally, maintaining its position from the previous year's report. The United States dominates Morocco's arms imports with a commanding 69%, followed by France at 14% and Israel at 11%.

Further highlighting the region's military dynamics, SIPRI identified Morocco as one of the largest military spenders in North Africa in its April report. Military expenditure in North Africa surged by 38% compared to 2022, with Algeria and Morocco together accounting for a staggering 82% of the region's military spending last year.

This substantial investment in advanced military technology underscores a broader strategic effort by Morocco to modernize its defense capabilities, ensuring its readiness and resilience in an increasingly complex global security environment.