Doha – Morocco has awarded a contract to Israeli defense manufacturer Elbit Systems for 36 Atmos 2000 self-propelled artillery pieces, replacing its previous supplier KNDS France, according to multiple sources cited by French newspaper La Tribune on Saturday.
The decision comes amid growing tensions between the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) and KNDS France following persistent technical issues with the Caesar artillery system, which Morocco first ordered in 2020 and partially received in 2022.
Sources reported to La Tribune that problems emerged shortly after the initial Caesar delivery in 2022.
“The Moroccans complained quite rapidly to the French group about recurring problems with the artillery systems delivered to FAR,” the newspaper stated.
Despite multiple complaints, KNDS France’s response was notably slow, with some artillery pieces reportedly still non-operational to date.
The switch to Elbit Systems’ Atmos 2000, mounted on Czech-made Tatra trucks, was influenced by both technical and commercial factors.
“The Moroccans were expecting a commercial gesture from the French that never came,” La Tribune wrote.
This situation provided an opening for Elbit Systems to present their Atmos 2000 as an alternative.
The decision affects not only KNDS France but also its subsidiary Arquus, which had hoped to secure a contract for accompanying vehicles for the FAR as part of this capability modernization.
This setback illustrates the challenges facing the French defense industry against competitors offering technologically advanced, responsive, and financially attractive solutions.
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The Atmos (Autonomous Truck Mounted Howitzer System) is a sophisticated artillery platform that integrates a 155mm artillery system mounted on either a 6×6 or 8×8 truck chassis.
The system features an armored cabin designed to accommodate between two and six crew members, including a driver, commander, and up to four gunners along with their personal equipment.
With a range exceeding 40 kilometers using ERFB-BB shells, the system employs a rapid “shoot-and-scoot” capability supported by an integrated electronic suite and automatic loading system to reduce crew workload.
The platform includes storage capacity for at least 18 shells, along with their propelling charges and fuses, and is compatible with all NATO-standard 155mm ammunition types.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Israel has become Morocco’s third-largest arms supplier, accounting for 11% of its military imports.
This latest contract further strengthens Elbit Systems’ presence in Morocco and confirms Israel’s growing role as a strategic supplier to Rabat.
Despite a diplomatic rapprochement between Rabat and Paris in October 2024, technical issues and delayed responses ultimately influenced Morocco’s decision to seek an alternative supplier.
