US Pentagon approves technical modifications for Morocco's F-16 fighter jet purchase

The US Congress has agreed to introduce some technical changes in the deals to purchase and develop Moroccan F-16 fighters, by providing these warplanes with a wireless data link information exchange system.

The initial deal was the purchase of 26 stations for this system, through which field information can be exchanged simultaneously and securely between the pilot and the leadership on the ground.

The Royal Air Force continues to rehabilitate its military arsenal through the development of the F-16 fleet in an American workshop, where the jet’s capabilities are being strengthened and rehabilitated with the latest technological systems, in order to respond to the needs of the Moroccan Air Force.

These tests mainly include a new electronic warfare system that has been installed on the aircraft to strengthen its defensive capabilities.

The Royal Air Force will receive 24 American F-16 fighter jets, after the Pentagon’s approval of the details of the military deal, supervised by the American military warplanes manufacturer company Lockheed Martin, with a six year timeline.

The Royal Air Force currently has a squadron of F-16 warplanes, which are distinguished by their high-precision attack capabilities, in addition to technological improvements that include its cabin, ejection devices and flexibility.

The Moroccan army has become more focused on developing its military equipment, rehabilitating its human capacity and providing it with self-experience in order to face future challenges.

Currently, the Kingdom has 36 F-16 aircrafts, but a plane was shot down in May 2015 by Houthi forces in Yemen. A lieutenant pilot named Yassin Behti died as a result of the attack.

The Kingdom has abandoned the project to purchase the four G550 AEW&C/ELINT/SIGNIT aircrafts, due to the high transaction cost and the military’s preference its for financially optimal solutions to its reinforcement plan.

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