Lockheed Martin's Commitment to Morocco's Aerospace Industry
Lockheed Martin, a leader in aerospace and defense, is set to participate in the Marrakech Air Show, scheduled from October 7 to 10, 2026. This event will feature a dedicated exhibition showcasing the company's aerial capabilities, air defense systems, and precision fire technologies. In preparation for the show, the American corporation will convene with Moroccan enterprises to explore potential integrations into future programs and its global supply chain. This initiative underscores Lockheed Martin's commitment to developing local industrial partnerships, which is crucial for enhancing Morocco's standing in the aerospace sector.
Building Stronger Local Partnerships
On October 6, Lockheed Martin will host an industrial networking day in collaboration with the Moroccan Ministry of Industry and Trade. The primary goal of this event is to identify potential Moroccan suppliers, present the necessary qualification requirements, and discuss manufacturing opportunities linked to current and future programs. This collaborative effort is part of a longstanding relationship between Lockheed Martin and the Royal Moroccan Air Forces (FRA), which began in 1974 with the delivery of the first C-130H Hercules aircraft and expanded further with the introduction of F-16 Block 52 jets in 2011. Lockheed Martin is eager to enhance the involvement of Moroccan companies in its international supply chain while continuing to develop local support capabilities in the aerospace sector.
At their exhibition booth in Marrakech, Lockheed Martin will showcase a cockpit demonstrator of the F-35, alongside scale models of the F-35A, F-16, and C-130J Super Hercules. The display will also feature a full-size Sniper targeting pod, the Javelin anti-tank missile, the HIMARS system, a model of the PAC-3 MSE interceptor, and the ER GMLRS system. Additionally, the presence of a C-130J from the U.S. Air Force will allow discussions regarding the potential modernization of Morocco's tactical airlift capabilities. Lockheed Martin emphasizes the extensive experience of the Royal Moroccan Air Forces with the Hercules family, positioning the C-130J as a modern solution for military transport, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response missions.
Moreover, this industrial focus aligns with the strategic partnership surrounding Maintenance Aero Maroc (MAM), in collaboration with Sabena Engineering, a member of the Belgian Orizio group, and MEDZ, a subsidiary of the CDG group. In October 2025, MAM and its partners commenced the construction of an 8,000 m² hangar in Benslimane, initially intended for heavy maintenance and modernization of the C-130 Hercules, with plans to eventually include other platforms like the F-16 under Morocco’s ambition to strengthen its regional position in aerospace maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.
As reported by aeronautique.ma.
