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Rabat– Morocco is evaluating the potential purchase of FA-50 fighter jets from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), according to sources at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, held from February 8 to 12.
A high-level Moroccan delegation, led by Minister Delegate for National Defense Administration Abdellatif Loudiyi, met with KAI officials to discuss military and technological cooperation. Central to the discussions was the possible integration of FA-50 Golden Eagle aircraft—light, multi-role jets often described as a “miniature F-16”—into the Royal Moroccan Air Force, both for advanced pilot training and combat support.
The FA-50 combines training functions with operational capabilities, including air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, and is being considered as a potential replacement for Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jets, currently used for pilot instruction and limited support operations.
Powered by a General Electric engines and compatible with F-16 systems, the FA-50 is already in service with countries such as Poland, Indonesia, and Iraq. Latest variants feature AESA radar and AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, enhancing combat versatility and interoperability.
KAI’s presence at the Riyadh show highlights its broader strategy targeting Middle East and North African markets, promoting the FA-50 alongside the KF-21 fighter, light attack helicopters, drones, and synthetic-aperture radar satellites. The World Defense Show has established itself as a key regional platform for military modernization discussions.
In parallel, the Moroccan delegation visited the Lockheed Martin pavilion, home to the F-16 fleet currently operated by Morocco. Rumors have also circulated regarding potential interest in Pakistani-designed fighter jets, though no official confirmation has emerged.
The FA-50 discussions are part of a broader trend of growing defense cooperation between Morocco and South Korea. Previous talks have covered K2 Black Panther main battle tanks, Cheongung (KM-SAM) medium-range air defense systems, self-propelled artillery, and naval platforms. South Korean industrial sources cited by Defense Blog indicate that the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) is reportedly considering up to 400 K2 tanks alongside Cheongung systems, signaling a potential expansion of Morocco’s supplier base beyond traditional American and European partners.
Beyond defense, Korean companies are increasingly active in Morocco’s strategic sectors. Hyundai Rotem, a major rail equipment manufacturer, recently won a historic $1.5 billion contract (around 15 billion dirhams) with Morocco’s National Railways Office (ONCF) to supply new trains, underlining Seoul’s growing industrial footprint in the country.
These developments reflect Rabat’s coordinated effort to modernize its air, land, and technological capabilities while diversifying international partnerships in both defense and strategic infrastructure.
