The successful test of Morocco’s first locally manufactured drone, ATLAS ISTAR, has caught the attention of military and security experts, marking a key step in the country’s broader efforts to develop its own defense industry.
Aerodrive Engineering Services recently announced the drone’s maiden flight, noting that “this milestone marks a significant achievement in our journey to develop a state-of-the-art unmanned aerial system designed for military surveillance and intelligence-gathering operations.”
The company highlighted that months of rigorous testing had resulted in “a system capable of providing real-time intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance, in critical missions.”
Experts noted that this trial demonstrates the Moroccan private sector’s growing involvement in the national defense manufacturing project, following the government’s decision in recent years to localize military production.
This initiative started with legislative reforms and has now progressed to the recent designation of two industrial zones dedicated to defense industries.
For context, a decree was approved at the ministerial council meeting on June 1 to create two defense industrial acceleration zones, designed to host industries focused on defense and security equipment, weapons systems, and ammunition systems.
Mohammed Chiker, a military expert, highlighted that Morocco’s effort to localize its military industry is advancing through various phases, beginning with the legal framework, followed by the creation of two military zones, and now shifting focus to securing partnerships with foreign companies specializing in military equipment to bring their investments to Morocco.
In a statement to Hespress Ar, Chiker emphasized that “Morocco’s military manufacturing project is now irreversible. There’s already a legal and industrial foundation in place, and the government is actively working to involve the private sector in this national effort to build a domestic military industry.”
The expert explained that Morocco’s private sector can participate in this effort either by investing alongside the public sector or through partnerships with foreign private companies that will also contribute to this national project.
He added that while large capital investments will be needed in the long run, Morocco’s private sector can begin by focusing on light military manufacturing before moving into more advanced areas, emphasizing that “a gradual approach to their involvement is crucial.”
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