Morocco is currently intensifying its efforts to increase the number of both armed and unarmed drones in its military arsenal. Following a series of agreements with Israeli drone manufacturers, the North African nation is working diligently to localize production within its borders. This strategic move is poised to enhance Morocco's defense capabilities significantly.
Recent reports highlight the Moroccan company Aerodrive Engineering Services as a key player in this initiative, focusing on the development of kamikaze drones or loitering munitions. Benslimane has been identified as a potential site for the production facility, with Israel involved in technology transfer and prior drone partnerships, ensuring the use of advanced technologies in the local production process.
The most notable development indicates that Aerodrive Engineering Services has secured a contract to supply 500 loitering munitions to the Moroccan army, further emphasizing Rabat's ambition to establish a domestic production line. Another report suggests that the factory is expected to commence operations in 2027, marking a significant milestone in Morocco's defense manufacturing capabilities.
Israeli sources have confirmed that any local drone production in Morocco will be based on Israeli technologies, underscoring the strong collaborative ties between the two nations in the defense sector. Previous agreements have been facilitated by the Israeli company BlueBird Aero Systems, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries. Reports suggest that this company has already established a production facility in Morocco for the SpyX loitering munitions systems as part of earlier agreements. Additionally, Moroccan technicians have reportedly received training alongside BlueBird Aero Systems in Israel, further strengthening the partnership.
This new initiative reflects Morocco's commitment to expanding its drone arsenal, likely influenced by insights gained from the use of drones during the Lebanon conflict. As reported by defence-network.com.
