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Rabat — Morocco is close to finalizing a major military aircraft deal with Brazilian aerospace company Embraer to acquire KC-390 Millennium military transport planes.
The deal comes closer to finalization even as American defense giant Lockheed Martin continues pushing its C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to maintain its market position in the North African country.
According to Military Africa, the deal could exceed $600 million and include four to five new aircraft. Morocco wants to replace its aging fleet of C-130H transport planes, which have reportedly lost performance due to their advanced age.
This move comes as Morocco’s defense budget has climbed to approximately $13 billion in 2024.
The country seeks to strengthen its air force capabilities for transport missions, supply operations, and multinational humanitarian and military operations.
Last year, a test KC-390 aircraft visited Rabat and Kenitra, where Moroccan pilots tested the plane.
Morocco and Embraer also signed a memorandum of understanding to establish an integrated aviation center with a $1 billion investment that will create 1,000 jobs by 2035.
The twin-engine jet-powered transport KC-390 Millennium is designed with a fresh approach to the table with its multi-role design that respects criteria of speed, payload versatility, and lower operating costs.
The military craft is capable of carrying up to 26 tonnes of cargo and reaches a maximum speed of 987.8 kilometres per hour and a ceiling of 10,973 metres, with a normal range of 2,590 kilometres that extends further in ferry configurations.
Lockheed Martin still interested in the Moroccan market
Meanwhile, Lockheed Martin continues upgrading Morocco’s current fleet through a contract with L3Harris.
The American defense contractor L3Harris Technologies announced signing a comprehensive upgrade agreement to modernize multiple C-130 aircraft, aiming to foster Morocco’s military transport capabilities
The upgrade program includes system improvements and engine renewals between 2025 and 2029, as the American company attempts to preserve its presence in the Moroccan market.
The competition signals Morocco’s strategic importance in North Africa and the growing rivalry between American and Brazilian defense contractors for lucrative military contracts in the region.
Diversifying military partners
The North African country has been working on boosting its defensive arsenal amid ongoing regional tensions, especially with the Algeria-backed separatist front, Polisario.
The US Federal Register revealed on May 30 that Morocco is anticipated to acquire 612 Javelin missiles and 200 launch units from the US. The deal is expected to be worth approximately $260 million.
Earlier this year, the country struck a deal to buy Chinese-made TB-001K “Scorpion” drones for reconnaissance and strike missions.
Morocco also received in February its first delivery of Bayraktar Akinci drones from Turkey following a 2023 agreement, aiming to secure surveillance over its borders in its southern provinces.
The North African country seems to be firm in taking bold steps to fortify its military defensive capabilities.
