Morocco Considers French Rafale Jets Amid Delays in F-16 Deliveries
On July 13, 2026, reports have emerged indicating that Morocco is engaged in negotiations with France to potentially acquire between 12 and 18 Dassault Rafale F4 fighter jets. This move comes as a response to the ongoing delays in the delivery of 25 F-16 Block 70/72 aircraft, which has prompted the Moroccan government to explore alternative options to enhance its air force capabilities. The Rafale F4 is a multi-role fighter designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, making it a versatile choice for Morocco's military needs.
According to sources, discussions have progressed significantly, although no contracts have been finalized yet. The negotiations are reportedly centered around a government-to-government agreement that would see the transfer of these advanced fighter jets to Morocco, with deliveries expected to commence in 2030 and 2031. Additionally, the talks have also included the possibility of Morocco acquiring A330 MRTT aerial refueling aircraft and Scorpène-class submarines to strengthen the capabilities of the Royal Moroccan Navy.
These negotiations represent a renewed effort by Morocco, following a previous unsuccessful attempt in 2007 when the country opted for American F-16s instead of the French Rafale jets. The urgency behind the current discussions can be attributed to the escalating military developments in Algeria, which has been actively enhancing its defense capabilities through a comprehensive armament program considered the largest in the Maghreb region.
From March 2025 to April 2026, there were 167 military cargo flights observed between Russia and Algeria, indicating a significant influx of military hardware. Reports show that some of these flights originated from Komsomolsk-on-Amur in Russia, where Sukhoi Su-35 and Su-57 fighter jets are manufactured. Notably, Algeria has become the first foreign customer of the Russian stealth fighter Su-57E and is also negotiating to purchase additional fighter jets and early warning aircraft to bolster its military readiness.
Strengthening Military Ties and Future Prospects
On the Moroccan side, delays in the modernization of its air force have been pronounced, with the delivery of the F-16s postponed until 2027 and 2028 due to production pressures at Lockheed Martin and modifications to the Viper Shield electronic warfare system. Unlike the advanced capabilities of the Su-57E, the current F-16s lack comparable stealth technology. Moreover, Morocco's discussions regarding the acquisition of used Mirage 2000-9 jets from the UAE have been rendered moot, as Abu Dhabi has decided to retain them. Preliminary talks about purchasing American F-35A jets are also facing hurdles due to delivery timelines and exorbitant costs.
The military cooperation between Morocco and France has shown significant progress, evidenced by the participation of five Rafale B jets in joint exercises with Moroccan F-16s in June and July 2025. A joint French-Moroccan armament committee was established during this period, further solidifying the defense relationship between the two nations. By the end of 2025, Dassault Aviation had received a total of 220 orders for Rafale jets and aims to ramp up production to 48 aircraft annually by 2028 and 2029. If Morocco proceeds with the purchase of Rafales, it may have to wait for its share of production amidst a busy delivery schedule filled with orders from countries like India, Croatia, Indonesia, and Greece.
Moreover, the strengthening of ties between Paris and Rabat extends beyond military cooperation, as French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is scheduled to visit Morocco on July 15 and 16, marking his first official trip abroad since taking office. This visit follows a notable improvement in relations between the two countries, particularly after French President Emmanuel Macron's acknowledgment of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara in the summer of 2024.
As reported by defense-arabic.com.
