Strengthening U.S.-Moroccan Defense Ties
On October 1, 2026, a high-level delegation from the U.S. Department of Defense visited Morocco to discuss the modernization of the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) and to enhance defense cooperation between Rabat and Washington. This visit illustrates the ongoing military coordination between the two nations and their mutual interest in developing collaborative areas in the near future.
The U.S. delegation was led by Brigadier General Tad Clark, the Director of Regional Affairs within the U.S. Air Force's International Affairs Office. During his visit, he engaged in discussions with General Mohamed Berrid, the Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces, and Major General Mohamed Kadih, the Inspector of the Royal Air Force. The talks primarily centered on current and future programs aimed at supporting the modernization of the Royal Air Force, as well as exploring ways to elevate bilateral defense cooperation to new heights. However, specific details regarding the systems, aircraft, or deals that were discussed have not been disclosed by Washington.
Modernization Programs and Future Aspirations
This meeting holds particular significance given the RMAF's reliance on several key American systems, particularly the F-16 fighter jets. Concurrently, Morocco is implementing modernization programs for its fleet to enhance its combat and operational capabilities. The country has plans to upgrade its existing F-16s to the F-16V Block 70/72 standard and has also contracted for new aircraft of the same model. This collaboration with the United States is not merely limited to the delivery of equipment; it also encompasses training, logistical support, technical upgrades, and maintaining operational readiness.
The discussions also come at a time when the RMAF is expanding its needs to develop capabilities across various domains, including sensor systems, communications, electronic warfare, armaments, and technical support. These areas are directly linked to the modernization programs for aircraft and the American systems currently in service.
During the visit, Brigadier General Clark emphasized that U.S.-Moroccan relations are “at an all-time high,” highlighting the strong momentum behind the partnership and the shared desire to continue cooperation. The nature of this meeting, which brought together a U.S. official with the Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces and the Inspector of the Royal Air Force, indicates that the modernization of the air force was a core topic of discussion, while keeping the door open for ongoing collaboration on current and future programs.
This visit is part of a broader trajectory of U.S.-Moroccan defense cooperation. The RMAF aims to continue modernizing its fleet and capabilities, while Washington remains committed to supporting its military partnership with Rabat through arms programs, modernization efforts, training, and defense cooperation.
Although the announcement of discussions on “current and future” programs does not necessarily mean that a new deal has been finalized, the timing of the meeting gains importance amid increasing reports about Morocco's ambition to acquire U.S. fifth-generation fighter jets, specifically the F-35.
Recent media reports have indicated that Morocco is potentially interested in acquiring 32 F-35A jets, with estimates ranging from $17 billion to $18 billion for the program, which includes the aircraft, equipment, training, and logistical support. Other reports have suggested that the program's value could be around $17 billion over 45 years, encompassing costs related to purchase and maintenance.
As the F-35 deal with Saudi Arabia enters a new phase, following the U.S. State Department's approval for a potential sale of 48 F-35A jets to Saudi Arabia for an estimated value of $24.3 billion, Morocco's interest in these jets has resurfaced prominently. This is particularly notable as allowing another Arab nation to acquire the aircraft may open the door for discussions regarding additional Arab requests.
Previous reports have also indicated that a Moroccan military delegation received a briefing from Lockheed Martin regarding the capabilities of the F-35, as the RMAF continues to execute an extensive program to modernize its fleet, including the F-16 Block 72 and upgrading existing F-16 aircraft to the F-16V standard.
As reported by defense-arabic.com.
