Morocco set on diversifying its drone arsenal

Morocco has reportedly purchased an unspecified number of China’s Wing Loong II medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as it continues to bolster its air capabilities and drone arsenal.

The news was reported by multiple defense outlets but no confirmation from Morocco where the army does not announce its procurements.

The new acquisitions will further boost Morocco’s superiority in the skies of north Africa. Also, the North African Kingdom has reportedly bought more than 13 TB2 Turkish mighty drones.

Soon after the proclamation by President Trump of the US recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara and the resumption of diplomatic relations with Israel, Reuters reported that the US moved forward with the sale to Morocco of four MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones and precision-guided weapons worth $1 billion.

Morocco has also sought Israeli suicide drones and engaged in talks to set up production units in the country.

Morocco has already indirectly purchased Heron UAVs from IAI and other UAVs from IAI unit Bluebird as well as robot patrol vehicle systems from Elbit Systems and drone interceptors from Skylock.

Drones have proven very efficient in thwarting attacks by the Algeria-armed Polisario militias.