A recent report issued by Spanish news outlet El Español analyzing Morocco’s improvement in military arsenal underlined that the continuous increases in the kingdom’s defense spending are beginning to bear fruit.
The Royal Armed Forces, according to the same report, have dedicated approximately 9.6% of Morocco’s GDP, which translates to a sum of 11.3 billion euros following a 4.1% increase in the latest distribution.
“With this allocated budget, the FAR of Rabat will be able to continue their ongoing programs like the procurement of F-16 Viper fighter jets, as well as acquiring new equipment,” highlighted the same source.
The mention of Morocco’s defense budget came about when El Español reported on the recent procurement made by the Royal Armed Forces (FAR). They have purchased 200 Cobra 2 armored vehicles after negotiating a contract with the Turkish company Otokar.
The Spanish news outlet highlighted that this recent agreement was announced towards the end of 2023. The export deal, valued at 125 million euros, was initially undisclosed regarding the recipient.
Along with the Cobra 2, the purchase also included spare parts, maintenance equipment, and training services, noted El Español, revealing that the deliveries of these vehicles will begin soon and be completed within this year.
The Cobra 2, a 4-wheel drive tactical armored vehicle, as described by Otokar, is a versatile modular platform with exceptional mobility, enhanced ballistic and mine protection, and increased payload capacity and internal volume.
It can also withstand mines, protect against ballistic threats, and is adaptable to challenging terrains and weather conditions. It can also be equipped with an amphibious version.
The same source added that approximately 20 of the recently acquired Cobra 2 armored vehicles would be deployed by Morocco for UN peacekeeping missions.
Not only do such deals fortify Morocco’s defense capabilities, explained the same source, but they also boost Turkish-Moroccan diplomatic ties, especially since this is not the first time that Morocco has turned to the Turkish defense industry to purchase armored vehicles.
Just three years ago, Rabat acquired the Nurol Ejder Yalcin 4×4 vehicle for the Army’s Special Forces. A total of 30 units were acquired and are already in operation, as showcased in promotional videos.
In addition, the Royal Moroccan Air Force had already purchased 24 units of the Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones for 53 million euros with attack and surveillance capabilities since 2021, demonstrating their interest in advanced military programs.
The Spanish news outlet also mentioned that 19 units of the Bayraktar TB2 drones have been received, while the status of the remaining 4 platforms is unknown.
The drone has a cruise altitude of 5,500 meters, a maximum flight ceiling of 8,200 meters, and an endurance of up to 27 hours. It can also fully autonomous flights, including difficult maneuvers like takeoff and landing.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.