Morocco Enhances Military Arsenal with American Armored Vehicles
Armored vehicles are distinguished by their ability to navigate rugged terrain and accommodate more than 12 personnel
Morocco has bolstered its military arsenal with dozens of American-made armored vehicles equipped with a four-wheel drive system, aiming to enhance the capabilities of the Royal Armed Forces in intervening in rugged areas. This deal coincides with several other agreements that indicate growing military cooperation between Rabat and Washington.
The Moroccan website “Al-Sahifa” cited its own sources stating that “the Moroccan army has received 88 BearCat vehicles manufactured by the American company, Lenco,” noting that the United States and many other countries use them due to their significant mobility in rugged terrains, as well as their ability to transport 12 personnel alongside military equipment.
The same sources revealed that the American armored vehicles are capable of reaching a speed of 145 kilometers per hour, adding that their maintenance costs are low. They also clarified that “the vehicles acquired by Morocco include some additions that enable dealing with certain incidents, including fire suppression.”
These military vehicles are expected to provide a strong boost to Morocco’s efforts in combating various forms of crime, including combating drug trafficking, illegal migration, and dealing with isolated disturbances.
Morocco has intensified its efforts in recent years to develop its military and security capabilities and enhance them with the latest equipment and weaponry. It has succeeded in diversifying its sources of arms procurement as part of a strategy aimed at not relying on specific international entities.
The U.S. administration announced about a week ago its approval to sell Javelin missiles to Morocco and other military equipment in a deal worth $260 million.
The U.S. Department of Defense stated that “the new deal will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by assisting in improving the security of a key non-NATO ally that continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in North Africa.”
In turn, the U.S. State Department confirmed that “this sale will contribute to enhancing Morocco’s long-term defense capability to defend its sovereignty and territory and meet national defense requirements. Morocco will not face any difficulty in integrating this equipment into its armed forces.”
The United States maintains close relations with Morocco and considers it a reliable ally and guarantor of stability in a highly sensitive region.
Morocco is steadfastly proceeding on the path of establishing an advanced defense industry as part of an ambitious plan aimed at achieving independence in the field, benefiting from advanced technology transfer, attracting foreign investment, and providing new employment opportunities. The budget allocated for armament and updating the weapons arsenal in Morocco has witnessed a noticeable increase in recent years due to the multiplicity of risks amid the geostrategic changes surrounding the kingdom, especially on the eastern and southern borders.
In 2020, Rabat established a legal framework related to defense equipment, security, weapons, and ammunition, while a detailed implementing decree specified the conditions for manufacturing, importing, and exporting military equipment.
Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch met a delegation from the U.S. Congress earlier this week in Rabat. During the meeting, emphasis was placed on Morocco’s leading role and its contribution to enhancing stability in the North Africa and Middle East region.
