US-Moroccan Talks on Air Force Modernization
On October 1, 2026, the Arab Defense website reported on a high-level delegation from the U.S. Department of Defense visiting Morocco to discuss the modernization of the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) and to enhance defense cooperation between Rabat and Washington. This visit underscores the ongoing military coordination between the two nations and their shared commitment to advancing collaborative efforts in the coming years.
Leading the American delegation was Brigadier General Tad Clark, the Director of Regional Affairs at the U.S. Air Force International Affairs Office. During his visit, he engaged in discussions with General Mohamed Braid, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces, and Major General Mohamed Kadih, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Air Force. The talks primarily focused on current and future programs aimed at supporting the modernization of the RMAF, as well as exploring avenues to elevate bilateral defense collaboration to new heights. However, specific details regarding the systems, aircraft, or deals discussed were not disclosed by the U.S. side.
Significance of the Meeting Amidst Expanding Military Needs
This meeting holds particular significance considering the Royal Moroccan Air Force's reliance on several key U.S. systems, most notably the F-16 fighter jets. Concurrently, Morocco is implementing programs to modernize its fleet and enhance its operational and combat capabilities. The Moroccan military has a plan to upgrade its F-16s to the F-16V Block 70/72 standard and has also contracted for new aircraft of the same model. Therefore, the collaboration with the United States encompasses not only the delivery of equipment but also extensive training, logistical support, technological upgrades, and operational readiness sustainability.
The discussions also come at a time when the RMAF is expanding its requirements to develop capabilities across various domains, including sensor systems, communications, electronic warfare, armament, and technical support. These areas are directly linked to the modernization of aircraft and American systems currently in service.
Brigadier General Tad Clark emphasized during the visit that American-Moroccan relations are “at an all-time high,” highlighting the robust momentum in the partnership between the two countries and the mutual desire to continue cooperating. The nature of this meeting, which brought together a senior American official with the Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces and the Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Air Force, indicates that air force modernization was a central topic of discussion, leaving the door open for continued cooperation on both current and future programs.
This visit is part of a broader framework for U.S.-Moroccan defense cooperation, as the RMAF seeks to continue modernizing its fleet and capabilities while Washington remains committed to supporting military partnership with Rabat through arms, modernization, training, and defense collaboration.
While the announcement of discussions regarding “current and future” programs does not imply that a new deal has been confirmed, the timing of the meeting is particularly noteworthy given the increasing reports about Morocco's ambitions to acquire American fifth-generation F-35 fighters. Recent media reports have indicated Morocco's potential interest in procuring 32 F-35A jets, with estimates placing the program's cost between $17 billion and $18 billion, which includes aircraft, equipment, training, and logistical support. Other reports have suggested the program's total value could reach approximately $17 billion over 45 years, encompassing purchase and maintenance costs.
With the Saudi F-35 deal entering a new phase following the U.S. State Department's approval in September 2026 to sell 48 F-35A jets to Saudi Arabia at an estimated cost of $24.3 billion, Morocco's fighter jet aspirations have gained renewed attention, especially since allowing another Arab nation to acquire the aircraft could open discussions for additional Arab requests.
Previous reports also indicated that a Moroccan military delegation received a briefing from Lockheed Martin regarding the capabilities of the F-35, as the Royal Moroccan Air Force continues to implement a comprehensive program to modernize its fleet, including the F-16 Block 72 and upgrades to existing F-16 jets to the F-16V standard.
As reported by defense-arabic.com.
