Israeli Military Firms at the Forefront of the Marrakech Airshow
As Israel continues its controversial military operations in the Gaza Strip, a trend has emerged wherein eight Israeli companies specializing in military industries are slated to participate in the upcoming Marrakech International Airshow. This exhibition, taking place from October 7 to 10, 2023, at the Royal Air Force base, will showcase a diverse array of military systems ranging from long-range missiles and guided bombs to drones and air defense systems. Reports from the Israeli media outlet i24 indicate that these companies have played a significant role in the ongoing military actions against the Palestinian population.
Advanced Weaponry and Military Technology
The participation of these companies marks a notable increase in military collaboration between Morocco and Israel, which has evolved from sharing expertise to acquiring advanced weaponry systems. Some of the prominent firms attending the airshow include Israeli Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, Rafael, Extend, Shilat, UVision, Asio Technologies, and Orbit Technologies. These companies are expected to showcase their military capabilities and products, with a particular focus on offensive weapons. Among the highlighted armaments is the "Lora" missile developed by Israeli Aerospace Industries, designed for precision strikes with a range between 90 to 430 kilometers. This missile can be launched from both land and sea platforms, targeting military installations and command centers.
Elbit Systems will present its "Puls" rocket artillery system, capable of launching various types of guided missiles, including the "Predator Hawk" with a range of up to 300 kilometers. Additionally, Rafael will demonstrate the "Spice 2000" system, which transforms conventional bombs into precision-guided munitions with a reported range of approximately 60 kilometers. The airshow will also feature the "Hero" family of loitering munitions produced by UVision, designed to seek and engage targets from land, sea, and air platforms, alongside the Heron MK2 drone and advanced air defense systems.
Moreover, Shilat will provide laser seekers for guided munitions, while Asio Technologies is developing navigation systems for drones that operate independently of satellite navigation. Orbit Technologies specializes in military communications equipment, further emphasizing the breadth of capabilities being exhibited.
This participation is particularly significant given the military relationship between Morocco and Israel has strengthened in recent years. In 2022, Morocco secured a deal to acquire the Barak MX air defense system for approximately $500 million and also purchased the "Puls" rocket system for around $150 million, which is associated with the "Extra" missiles that have a range of up to 150 kilometers. The cooperation extends to drone technology, with the Moroccan military having obtained the "Wonder Bee" and "Thunder Bee" systems from Bluebird, intended for reconnaissance and border surveillance, as well as supporting artillery operations. The presence of Israeli companies at the Marrakech Airshow not only reflects commercial interests but also signifies the expanding fields of military collaboration between the two nations.
It is essential to note that Israel has been conducting military operations against the Palestinian people in Gaza since October 7, 2023, which have resulted in substantial casualties, including over 74,040 fatalities and more than 175,168 injuries, according to statements from the Palestinian Ministry of Health, which were shared with Arab21.
As reported by arabi21.com.
