Rabat, August 18, 2025 (Agencies) — Morocco is weighing the acquisition of six French Rafale F4 fighter jets, marking a strategic leap in its ongoing air force modernization program. The advanced multirole aircraft, developed by Dassault Aviation, would bolster Morocco’s aerial capabilities amid shifting regional dynamics and growing defense competition.
The potential deal, reported by Avions Legendaires and corroborated by local media, includes associated weapons and support systems. It follows Morocco’s participation in the “Marathon 25” joint military exercises with France, held from June 23 to July 5, where Moroccan pilots flew Rafale jets and assessed their performance firsthand. Senior Moroccan air force officers were present during the drills, which also featured Airbus A330 MRTT tankers, though no formal link has been made to Morocco’s procurement plans.
The Rafale F4 bid comes amid a broader rivalry between France and the United States, with Washington promoting its F-16V Viper as an alternative. Morocco already operates 15 upgraded F-16C fighters and has approved the acquisition of 24 additional Block 72 Vipers.
Beyond fighter jets, Morocco is expanding its aerial fleet with diverse platforms. The Royal Moroccan Air Force currently fields Mirage F1s, F-5E Tiger IIs, and a growing inventory of drones, including Turkish Bayraktar Akinci and Chinese TB-001K “Scorpion” UAVs. The country is also finalizing a $600 million deal with Brazil’s Embraer for KC-390 Millennium transport aircraft to replace its aging C-130H fleet.
In parallel, Morocco is pursuing a landmark acquisition of 32 F-35 Lightning II jets from the United States, potentially making it the first African nation to operate fifth-generation stealth aircraft. The $17 billion deal, if finalized, would span procurement, maintenance, and long-term support through 2070.
These developments reflect Morocco’s strategic ambition to establish itself as a leading air power in North Africa, amid persistent tensions with Algeria and evolving regional security challenges. An official Rafale order could be placed in 2026, with delivery timelines yet to be confirmed.