Israel's Defense Ministry Leads Delegation to Historical Air Show
On October 8, 2026, Israel marked a significant milestone by officially participating in the Marrakech International Air Show, showcasing its defense technologies for the first time since the trilateral agreement between Morocco, the United States, and Israel was signed on December 22, 2020. The Israeli Defense Ministry inaugurated a dedicated pavilion at the event, leading a delegation composed of notable figures from the Israeli defense industry, including the military attaché to Morocco, Colonel Sharon Itach, and the head of SIBAT, Brigadier General (Res.) Yair Kolas.
Showcasing Cutting-Edge Defense Technologies
This participation is particularly momentous as it also marks the first time that SIBAT, the Israeli Ministry of Defense's Directorate for International Defense Cooperation, has opened a pavilion and led a delegation to this exhibition. According to a press release from the Israeli ministry, eight Israeli defense companies presented technologies recognized for their effectiveness in combat scenarios. The showcased innovations include loitering munitions, AI-powered robotic systems, autonomous navigation capabilities for drones, laser-guided munitions, and satellite communication systems.
The pavilion featured five key companies, each contributing unique technologies. Asio Technologies specializes in navigation and command systems that remain operational even when GPS signals are jammed. Orbit Communication Systems manufactures satellite communication stations suitable for land, maritime, and aerial platforms. Shilat Optronics is involved in the development of optical systems, providing laser guidance for munitions and drones. Uvision produces loitering munitions, characterized as suicide drones that hover over a target area before striking. XTEND is known for its tactical drones, which are equipped with artificial intelligence capabilities, including FPV drones and loitering munitions.
Additionally, the three major Israeli defense groups were also present. Elbit Systems, a leading private entity in the sector, produces ground systems, drones, and electro-optics. Israel Aerospace Industries, a state-owned company, manufactures aircraft, satellites, drones, and radars. Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, another public company, is renowned for its Iron Dome and Spike missile systems, providing solutions across air, land, sea, space, intelligence, and cyber domains.
This event aligns with the Israeli Defense Ministry's strategy to enhance defense exports and foster cooperation with allied nations. The ministry believes that this strategy will bolster the Israeli military's prominence, influence foreign policy, and support both the defense industry and the Israeli economy. During the exhibition, numerous meetings were held with delegations and government officials from various countries.
Brigadier General (Res.) Yair Kolas, head of SIBAT, remarked that this inaugural Israeli presence at an exhibition in Morocco represents a significant milestone for the Defense Ministry and the Israeli defense industry. He emphasized that the companies present showcased technologies proven effective in combat, alongside innovations in autonomy, AI, and communications. Kolas views SIBAT as a gateway to the Israeli defense ecosystem and believes that the exhibition serves as a platform for expanding international cooperation and building lasting partnerships.
As reported by ar.le360.ma.
