Morocco's Military Advancements and Strategic Comparisons with Spain
On October 6, 2026, the Royal Moroccan Air Force's first F-16 Block 72 successfully completed its maiden flight in South Carolina, USA. Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, this aircraft is currently undergoing final tests before its official delivery, following some delays in the program. This aircraft stands as a prominent symbol of Morocco's ongoing military modernization, a development closely monitored by Spain.
The question arises: how does Morocco's military strength measure up against that of Spain when we analyze the numbers? Spain clearly leads in defense spending and maintains a significant control over maritime routes. In contrast, Morocco is focusing on increasing its troop numbers and developing a type of rocket artillery that Spain’s military has not utilized for over fifteen years.
Defense Spending: A Significant Disparity
The most striking difference between the two nations is evident in their defense budgets. According to the latest report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Spain’s defense expenditure in 2025 was approximately €34.287 billion, marking a 50% increase from the previous year and representing 2.1% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In comparison, Morocco's budget stood at €5.645 billion, up from €4.920 billion in 2024, making it the second-largest military investor in Africa, following Algeria, which spent €22.660 billion.
This disparity can largely be attributed to the overall size of their economies. Morocco concluded 2025 with a GDP of €138.668 billion, as reported by the World Bank, while Spain’s economy was about €1.69 trillion, roughly twelve times larger. There is a common belief that Morocco allocates 10% of its GDP to defense; however, SIPRI estimates Moroccan military expenditures at 3.54% of GDP for 2025. This figure reflects the share of defense spending within the national budget, which SIPRI reported to be 10.28% for the same year.
Regarding budgetary allocations, the Moroccan finance law for 2026 allows the Ministry of National Defense to commit to future expenditures of 157.170 billion Dirhams, approximately €14.700 billion. This multi-year framework is often misrepresented as a single-year budget. In reality, the payments scheduled for 2026 amount to 55.300 billion Dirhams, or about €5.157 billion. Meanwhile, Spain reached a defense spending level of 2% of its GDP in 2025 and plans to maintain this in 2026, although it remains the only NATO ally unwilling to commit to the target of 5% by 2035.
In terms of military personnel, Morocco boasts an active duty force of between 195,000 and 200,000 soldiers, supplemented by around 150,000 reservists. Unlike Spain, Morocco reinstated conscription in 2019, significantly bolstering its troop numbers. This difference is critical as Spain currently faces personnel shortages, with only 116,739 soldiers in active service as of January 1, 2025, which is below the minimum legal requirement of 130,000.
In the realm of air power, Spain operates a greater number of combat aircraft, including 81 EF-18 Hornets and 67 Eurofighters, with additional aircraft on order. Conversely, Morocco's recent acquisition of 25 F-16 Block 72 fighters demonstrates its commitment to enhancing its air capabilities. Additionally, Morocco has received approval from Washington for 23 upgrade kits for its existing F-16s, further solidifying its aerial strength.
Moreover, Morocco's military strategy includes advanced equipment such as the AH-64E Apache helicopters, of which it has received twelve out of 24 ordered. In contrast, Spain is upgrading its fleet of 18 Tiger helicopters to the MKIII standard. Furthermore, Morocco has fully integrated the Israeli Barak MX air defense system, comprising three batteries and 225 interceptors capable of engaging targets at distances of up to 70 kilometers.
On land, Morocco's military capabilities closely approach those of Spain's. Morocco relies on the US-made M1A2 Abrams tanks, with estimates suggesting around 200 operational tanks and an additional 150 on order. Spain, meanwhile, fields 220 Leopard 2E tanks and plans upgrades to the Leopard 2A8 standard. A significant asymmetry lies in the area of rocket launchers, with Morocco reportedly possessing 185 systems, while Spain has none, having phased out its capabilities in this regard in 2011.
At sea, the differences are stark. Spain's naval strength is anchored by five F-100 frigates, while Morocco’s fleet includes only one FREMM frigate. Underwater capabilities are another area of concern for Morocco, as its submarine fleet is traditionally weak. However, it has recently commissioned the S-81 "Isaac Peral" submarine and is testing the S-82 "Narciso Monturiol," which is expected to be delivered soon.
In terms of political support for military acquisitions, Morocco has recently strengthened ties with the United States, signing a military cooperation roadmap for 2026-2036. The US Senate has gone further, mandating the Pentagon to develop a ten-year plan to make Morocco the most capable military partner of the US in Africa.
In conclusion, while Spain currently maintains a lead in defense spending and technological advancements, Morocco is making significant strides in military modernization. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, both nations will need to navigate their military strategies carefully, ensuring that they remain prepared for any potential challenges ahead.
As reported by de.euronews.com.
