Rabat – Morocco is reportedly planning to buy two submarines to bolster the country’s navy, according to an article by the American magazine Military Africa.
Two European shipbuilders are running to win the bid and deliver their latest state-of-the-art submarines to the North African country.
Both France’s Naval Group and Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) are showcasing their latest advancement in terms of submarine designs to win a deal with Rabat.
France’s shipbuilder Naval Group is pulling out all the stops, offering Morocco two Scorpène-class submarines while also vying for the concession to operate a new shipyard in Casablanca.
Military Africa reported that the French group’s Scorpène is “incredibly stealthy and autonomous,” with a flexible design that can be customized to Morocco’s needs.
This advanced submarine can integrate the latest innovations, including lithium-ion batteries, increasing endurance and technological edge.
The Scorpène is also equipped with an integrated French combat system and a fully automated centralized platform control system. This ensures a high level of diving safety with a smaller crew, making it ideal for coastal waters.
The relationship between Naval Group and Morocco is already in place, as the country’s Royal Armed Forces have been in talks with the group for a potential submarine contract since 2021.
In 2014, the company delivered a multi-mission frigate to Morocco, further solidifying its presence in the country. “By 2022, Naval Group will be the sole bidder to manage the future Casablanca shipyard, positioning it as a frontrunner in this competition,” Military Africa wrote.
On the other side, Germany’s TKMS is also bringing its submarine technologies to the table with the HDW Class Dolphin AIP submarine and the HDW Class 209/1400mod.
Read also: Defense: Morocco Invests in Accelerating Shift from Importer to Manufacturer
TKMS’ Dolphin delivers “high operational value” with an integrated fuel cell system that significantly boosts submerged endurance, featuring a state-of-the-art combat system, and a versatile weapon expulsion system capable of launching torpedoes, missiles, and mines.
Although with an older design, the HDW Class 209/1400mod remains a reliable and proven option, adding depth to Germany’s bid, according to the magazine.
The news comes as the North African country is working to enhance its military capabilities to improve its ability to respond to various security challenges and protect its territorial integrity.
Morocco increased its defense budget for 2025 to over MAD 133 billion (approximately $13 billion), as part of a strategy to strengthen its military capabilities in the face of rising regional tensions.
