Morocco's interest in American weapons continues; The Pentagon has approved a deal between Lockheed Martin, the world's largest arms producer, and the Royal Armed Forces to supply Morocco with a US air defense system.
According to a confidential document published by the US defense website, Lockheed Martin is preparing to intensify production of advanced Patriot III missiles in 2022 with a new manufacturing line to respond to orders from a number of US allies, including Morocco.
The new PAC-3 MSE production line in Camden, Arkansas, "will be ready next year to support strong demand for the high-velocity kill strike system," said Scott Arnold, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Integrated Air and Missile Defense Business.
In 2019, the US administration and Morocco negotiated the supply of the MIM-104 Patriot American air defense system with the aim of improving the defense capabilities of the Royal Armed Forces.
The United States also approved a $4.25 billion arms package for the Moroccan Armed Forces, including 36 AH-64 Apache heavy attack helicopters and other weapons and associated maintenance equipment.
The American “Patriot” air defense system, which the Royal Armed Forces seeks to acquire, is considered the best missile system to confront and shoot down hostile missiles. Therefore, many countries rely on it mainly to protect their airspace and strategic and sensitive centers during wars.
The Patriot missile system represents a medium-range surface-to-air missile defense system designed to counter all air threats, whether combat aircraft, drones, ballistic missiles or even cruise missiles. It is noteworthy that the deal for Morocco to acquire this system will be the first of its kind, especially since the armed forces do not have any type of anti-missile defense system.
The US Agency for International Trade revealed on its official website that "Morocco's growing aviation sector has presented various opportunities, including supply inputs, turnkey aircraft, maintenance and airport infrastructure, with more than 140 airlines present in the country."
The Royal Moroccan Air Force flies F-16 fighters, C-130 transport aircraft, CH-47D helicopters, and other equipment of American origin; While the Royal Moroccan Navy operates modern frigates equipped with digital communications of American origin.