Milestone Achievement: Morocco's F-16D Block 72 Takes to the Skies

The Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) has reached an important milestone with the successful maiden flight of its first F-16D Block 72, marking not only the initial flight of Morocco's latest Vipers but also the first new-build F-16 Block 72 aircraft to take to the air. Lockheed Martin confirmed this significant achievement on October 6, 2026, reporting that the aircraft completed its inaugural flight from the company’s F-16 production facility located in Greenville, South Carolina. This event is a pivotal moment in Morocco's ongoing efforts to modernize and expand its F-16 fleet, which will now proceed to undergo additional flight testing before being officially delivered to the North African nation.

Background and Future Prospects of Morocco's F-16 Fleet

Morocco's journey towards acquiring the F-16 Block 72 began in March 2019 when the U.S. State Department authorized a Foreign Military Sale (FMS), which included 25 F-16C/D Block 72 aircraft at an estimated cost of $3.787 billion. Although the FMS notice did not specify the number of twin-seat F-16Ds included in this package, it emphasized the comprehensive nature of the acquisition, which encompasses advanced avionics, sensors, and weapons systems. The aircraft will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies including Pratt & Whitney engines, AN/APG-83 AESA radars, and a suite of precision munitions that enhance combat capabilities. This modernization effort aims to bolster Morocco's defense posture and ensure that the RMAF maintains a competitive edge in regional air power.

The Block 72 variant is a part of the latest-generation F-16 Block 70/72 family, which features significant updates in avionics and mission systems while preserving the fundamental airframe design of the F-16. Notably, the Block 72 is powered by the Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 engine, aligning it with Morocco's existing F-16C/D Block 52+ fleet. This strategic choice not only facilitates maintenance and logistics through shared components but also supports personnel training as Morocco plans to upgrade its current aircraft to the F-16V Block 72 configuration. The combination of new-build aircraft and upgraded fighters will significantly enhance the RMAF's operational capabilities and create a more uniform and effective fleet.

As reported by theaviationist.com.