Morocco Moves Closer to Acquiring American F-35 Fighter Jets: A Quantum Leap in the Race for Air Superiority in Africa
In a significant move reflecting Morocco’s growing military ambitions, a report from “Times Aerospace” has revealed that the Kingdom is nearing the procurement of American F-35 fighter jets, one of the most advanced aircraft in the world. This follows a briefing received by a Moroccan military delegation from Lockheed Martin during the International Defense Exhibition “IDEX” in Abu Dhabi last February.
According to the report, the potential deal, which could make Morocco the first Arab and African country to possess this type of fighter, involves the purchase of 32 F-35A aircraft, at an estimated cost of around $17 billion over 45 years, covering purchase, maintenance, and logistical support. Informed sources also indicated that this potential deal received approval from Israel, which plays an indirect role in promoting this model to countries in the Middle East and North Africa.
Morocco, which has experienced a steady trajectory in updating its air capabilities over the years, previously signed a contract with the United States in 2020 for the supply of 24 F-16C/D Block 72 aircraft, the latest version of this multirole fighter, with deliveries expected to commence this year. Additionally, the Royal Air Force is upgrading 23 F-16s to the F-16V version, which enhances capabilities in surveillance, jamming, and electronic warfare by equipping them with Northrop Grumman APG-83 AESA radars, Lockheed Martin Sniper targeting pods, and advanced electronic protection systems.
In this context, the acquisition of F-35s falls within a broader strategy for Morocco to strengthen its air superiority in the region, especially amidst ongoing tensions with Algeria. Reports indicate that the Kingdom is also working to bolster its intelligence capabilities with two Gulfstream 550 surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft equipped with Israeli electronic systems, alongside owning satellites for espionage and reconnaissance purposes.
The F-35s represent the fifth generation of stealth fighters, characterized by advanced capabilities in stealth, sensor data fusion, and networked warfare, making them integrated combat platforms capable of executing offensive and defensive missions in complex environments. The aircraft is equipped with a cutting-edge AESA radar and electronic warfare systems capable of disrupting and confusing enemy air defense systems, in addition to having diverse internal and external armament options, including precision-guided munitions and long-range air-to-air missiles.
This aircraft is currently utilized by the United States and its allies, including Israel, which was the first country to deploy it in real combat operations in Syria since 2018, conducting precision strikes against Iranian targets. Several European nations, such as the United Kingdom, Italy, and the Netherlands, as well as Japan, South Korea, and Australia, also employ F-35s.
The potential deal between Morocco and the United States is viewed as part of a strategic rebalancing in North Africa, especially with Algeria’s efforts to acquire Russian Su-57 fighters. Despite skepticism regarding the latter’s readiness, the mere pursuit of these aircraft highlights the intensifying technological race between the two neighbors.
Should this step materialize, the introduction of F-35s into the Moroccan Air Force could mark a decisive turning point, not only in military terms but also in Morocco’s position as a key security ally for Washington on the African continent, which could have geopolitical and economic ramifications extending beyond merely acquiring advanced fighter jets.
