Morocco Boosts Defense Budget to Strengthen Military Capacity Ahead of 2025
Rabat, Morocco – In a significant move to enhance its military capabilities, Morocco has announced plans to increase its defense budget to 133 billion dirhams (approximately $13 billion) for the year 2025. This marks a notable rise from the 124 billion dirhams allocated for 2024 and 119 billion dirhams in 2023. The government aims to modernize the Royal Armed Forces by investing in advanced military technologies and diversifying its procurement sources.
The comprehensive strategy laid out by Rabat emphasizes the acquisition of cutting-edge military equipment, including drones, fighter jets, and advanced air defense systems. While Morocco is committed to boosting its domestic military production capabilities, it continues to rely heavily on imports, sourcing weapons from various countries including the United States, Israel, Europe, India, China, and Turkey.
Morocco has also made headlines recently as the first African nation to supply military equipment to Ukraine, delivering 20 T-72B tanks in 2023 amidst ongoing regional conflicts.
As part of its efforts to enhance local production, the Moroccan government announced the creation of two industrial defense acceleration zones in June. These zones aim to host industries focused on developing advanced defense and security equipment, including weaponry and ammunition systems.
In a promising development for local defense technology, Moroccan Aerodrive Engineering Services recently conducted successful tests of the Atlas Istar, the nation’s first domestically produced drone. According to the company, this unmanned aerial vehicle is designed to provide essential real-time intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance capabilities for critical military missions.
With these ambitious initiatives, Morocco is positioning itself as a growing player in the defense sector both regionally and globally. The substantial increase in its defense budget reflects the nation’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities and enhancing its strategic partnerships in defense acquisitions.
