In a significant move that underscores Morocco's commitment to enhancing its national defense capabilities, the Moroccan government has announced plans to raise its defense budget to 190.5 billion dirhams (approximately 17.5 billion euros) for the year 2027. This marks an impressive increase of 21.3% compared to the previous year, making it one of the largest budget increases recorded in recent years. The proposed budget allocations are detailed in the 2027 Budget Project, which designates funds for the National Defense Administration specifically for the "acquisition and repair of Royal Armed Forces equipment" as well as "support for the development of the defense industry."
This increase is part of a broader trend of rising defense budgets in Morocco over recent years. In 2026, the defense budget stood at 157 billion dirhams (around 14.5 billion euros), reflecting a 17.8% increase from 2025. Since 2020, Morocco has been actively pursuing a strategy to develop a national defense industry through the establishment of a specific legal framework, the creation of industrial zones, and partnerships with foreign manufacturers aimed at attracting investment and facilitating technology transfer.
During the recent "Marrakech Air Show," Abdellatif Loudiyi, the Minister Delegate in Charge of Defense, highlighted Morocco's goal of transitioning from a country that imports defense capabilities to one that develops its own national capabilities, thereby reinforcing its sovereignty. This statement reflects the nation's ambition to not only enhance its military capabilities but also to ensure greater independence in defense matters.
As reported by swissinfo.ch.
