Lockheed Martin announced that the first F-16 Block 72 fighter jet destined for the Royal Moroccan Air Force has successfully completed its inaugural flight, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s ongoing airpower modernization program.
The aircraft is now progressing through flight testing ahead of its eventual delivery.
The F-16 Block 72 represents the newest and most advanced variant of the Fighting Falcon, featuring modernized avionics, next-generation sensors, improved mission systems, and enhanced safety and reliability features.
“This first flight reflects meaningful progress on Morocco’s F-16 Block 72 program and is a critical step in strengthening Morocco’s future airpower,” said Mike Shoemaker, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group.
“The F-16 remains a vital component of today’s and future air defense, and we’re proud of the role it will continue to play in supporting Morocco’s sovereignty and contributing to regional stability for decades to come,” he said in a statement.
Lockheed Martin highlighted its partnership with Morocco spanning more than 50 years, beginning with the delivery of the first C-130H Hercules transport aircraft in 1974.
Today, the Royal Armed Forces operate F-16 fighters, C-130s, advanced radar systems, and Black Hawk helicopters, and are set to receive HIMARS systems providing long-range precision strike capabilities.
The company is also deepening industrial cooperation through Maintenance Aero Maroc.
A new Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility under development in Benslimane, covering more than 8,000 square meters, will support heavy maintenance and modernization of C-130 aircraft, with plans to expand to platforms including the F-16.
The investment aligns with Morocco’s ambition to become a regional hub for aircraft maintenance and overhaul.
The successful first flight of the Block 72 comes as Morocco pursues a broad modernization of its military capabilities. In 2019, the United States approved the sale of 25 new F-16C/D Block 72 aircraft, valued at approximately $3.8 billion, along with the upgrade of Morocco’s existing 23 F-16s to the advanced Viper standard.
Once completed, the program will give the Royal Moroccan Air Force a fleet of nearly 50 modernized F-16s equipped with advanced radars such as the AN/APG-83 and enhanced combat systems.
