Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Elbit Systems, and several other prominent Israeli defense firms are gearing up for their inaugural participation in Morocco's Marrakesh Air Show, scheduled for October 7-10, 2026. This event marks a significant opportunity for Israel to establish a stronger foothold in a market that has traditionally been dominated by French and American defense companies. As confirmed by _Defense & Tech_ from _The Jerusalem Post_, the lineup includes renowned firms such as Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Xtend, Shilat, Uvision, and Orbit Technologies, all set to display a wide array of advanced air-defense, precision-strike, unmanned, and space technologies.
At the forefront of IAI's exhibition will be its Barak air-defense system, LORA precision-strike technology, Heron MK II unmanned aerial vehicle, OPAL collaborative-combat technology, as well as its capabilities in communications satellites. The company is keen on leveraging this platform not only to showcase its cutting-edge technologies but also to foster local partnerships, enhance industrial collaboration, and facilitate knowledge sharing and technology transfer with Moroccan and regional allies. Elbit Systems, on the other hand, will unveil its PULS multiple rocket launcher and the advanced SPECTRO electro-optical payload system, alongside various drone models including the Hermes 900 and THOR tactical UAS.
Strengthening Ties and Increasing Defense Budgets
Morocco's relationship with Israel has evolved significantly over the years, particularly following the reestablishment of diplomatic ties in 2020 under the Abraham Accords. Since then, Morocco has actively sought to enhance its defense capabilities, resulting in increased defense budgets and a series of agreements with Israeli defense companies. Notably, a memorandum of understanding signed in 2021 outlines cooperation in arms deals, intelligence sharing, and joint military initiatives. This year, the two nations have taken further steps to solidify their military collaboration, including a joint military work plan for 2026 and the recent upgrade of diplomatic relations.
IAI has already secured a significant contract with Morocco, valued at $500 million, for the Barak MX air-defense system, which integrates various missile capabilities tailored to different operational ranges. Furthermore, IAI is reportedly involved in a substantial $1 billion space deal, possibly concerning an Ofek 13 reconnaissance satellite aimed at enhancing Morocco's surveillance capabilities and replacing older systems supplied by France. The establishment of a factory in Benslimane, Morocco, by IAI's subsidiary BlueBird Aero Systems, represents a pivotal moment in which advanced Israeli drone technology will be produced locally in North Africa, focusing on lightweight and portable loitering munitions.
Competing with French Defense Industry
The burgeoning defense relationship between Israel and Morocco is poised to challenge the longstanding dominance of French defense firms within the Moroccan aerospace and defense landscape. Companies like Airbus, Thales, and Dassault have historically been the primary suppliers to Morocco; however, the increasing collaboration with Israeli firms indicates a shift in the kingdom's defense procurement strategies. As Morocco's defense needs evolve, the presence of Israeli companies at the Marrakesh Air Show reflects a growing trend toward integrated air defense systems, long-range precision strike capabilities, and advanced unmanned systems.
This competitive landscape is further complicated by recent tensions between Israeli and French defense industries, highlighted by French authorities' decision to exclude Israeli firms from significant exhibitions like the 2024 Eurosatory and the 2025 Paris Airshow, citing geopolitical factors. This exclusion has not deterred Israeli companies, which are now preparing to showcase their capabilities in Marrakesh, focusing on a market where they face less institutional resistance from established French players.
As reported by jpost.com.
