First-Time Participation of Israeli Defense Companies at Marrakech Air Show 2026

In a significant development in international defense collaboration, seven Israeli defense companies are set to officially participate in the Marrakech Air Show 2026, marking a historic first. This announcement follows recent upgrades in diplomatic relations between Morocco and Israel, underscoring a strengthening alliance in the defense sector. The event is scheduled to take place from October 7 to 10 at the Royal Armed Forces Air Base in Marrakech, showcasing the latest advancements in military technology and aerospace innovations.

Technology Showcase and Diplomatic Milestones

According to reports from the Jerusalem Post, the participating firms include Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Elbit Systems, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Xtend, Shilat, Uvision, and Orbit Technologies. These companies will showcase a diverse range of technologies, including air defense systems, precision strike capabilities, unmanned systems, and satellite communications. This participation comes at a time when the Moroccan defense market has been traditionally dominated by French and American manufacturers. Notably, IAI will present its collaborative combat system OPAL, the long-range LORA missile, and the MALE Heron MK II drone, among other advanced defense solutions.

The cooperation between Morocco and Israel is already well-established, highlighted by a recent $500 million contract signed by IAI for the Barak MX air defense system, which became fully operational at the beginning of 2026. Additionally, Elbit Systems has already delivered Atmos 2000 self-propelled guns ordered in February 2025, while BlueBird Aero Systems, a subsidiary of IAI, is constructing a local production facility for the SpyX drone in Benslimane. Earlier this year, Morocco and Israel formalized a joint military work plan, further solidifying their strategic partnership.

The timing of Israeli firms' participation in the Marrakech Air Show is particularly notable, occurring just a week after the announcement on September 16 in New York, which elevated the diplomatic status of the two nations. Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa'ar, along with U.S. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz, agreed to upgrade the liaison offices of both countries to full embassies, complete with the mutual appointment of ambassadors. They also discussed expanding direct air links and finalizing investment protection agreements by the end of the year.

As reported by atlasinfo.fr.