Morocco is poised to enhance its military capabilities with the impending arrival of Turkish-manufactured Bayraktar Akinci drones, as local media sources have reported that the delivery of these advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is set to commence in February of the upcoming year. This development follows the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces’ decision in 2021 to enter into a significant contract worth 626 million dirhams (approximately $70 million) for the procurement of 13 Bayraktar TB2 combat drones, which will also include remote control ground stations and customizable simulation systems.
The Bayraktar Akinci, engineered by the Turkish firm Baykar, is recognized for its advanced design and capabilities. This new UAV boasts an impressive wingspan of 20 meters (65.6 feet), a length of 12.3 meters (40.4 feet), and a height of 4.1 meters (13.5 feet). It has a maximum take-off weight of 6,000 kilograms (13,228 pounds) and a payload capacity of up to 1,500 kilograms (3,306 pounds). Powered by dual turboprop engines, the Akinci can achieve cruising speeds of 277 kilometers (172 miles) per hour, with a maximum speed reaching 361 kilometers (224 miles) per hour. Notably, it is equipped with a dual satellite communication system, enabling it to conduct both air-to-ground and air-to-air attack missions while remaining airborne for over 24 hours.
Alongside the acquisition of foreign drones, Morocco is also focusing on enhancing its domestic production capabilities. Recently, Portuguese unmanned aerial systems provider Tekever established a partnership with local company Droneway aimed at advancing the UAV sector within Morocco. This collaboration is expected to provide comprehensive training, assembly, and operational logistics support, thereby fostering homegrown technological advancement.
Additionally, in October, Moroccan Aerodrive Engineering Services announced the successful testing of the Atlas Istar, marking a significant milestone as the country’s first domestically designed drone. Accelerating its defense initiatives, Morocco outlined plans to increase its defense budget for the following year to 133 billion dirhams (approximately $13 billion), emphasizing a commitment to strengthening military capabilities and promoting local manufacturing industries.
