RESUMEN
With the forthcoming incorporation of state-of-the-art Turkish drones to its air force, Morocco confirms its desire to become the hegemonic power in North Africa while at the same time generating some concern in Spain. The new Bayraktar Akinci drone has more autonomy, range, transport capacity and precision weaponry. Can it be an ally for the security of both countries? Or a potential threat?
Óscar Ruiz / Escudo Digital
In a move that confirms its ambition to dominate the North African military landscape, Morocco is preparing to incorporate Turkish-made Bayraktar Akinci drones in 2025, an unprecedented technological leap (so far) in its fleet. With an autonomy of 25 hours and precision weaponry, these advanced systems reinforce the capabilities of the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) and generate “doubts” in Spain and neighboring countries about the impact of this advance on regional stability.
More Turkish technology for Morocco from February 2025, as announced by several media. The Moroccan drone fleet already has 19 Bayraktar TB2 drones acquired in 2021. The new aircraft has an increased payload capacity, allowing it to carry a variety of munitions, including precision-guided missiles.
The Bayraktar Akinci is a high-tech Turkish combat drone, with a 20-meter wingspan and designed by Baykar, which stands out for its payload capacity of up to 1,500 kilograms, flight range of 25 hours and range of 7,500 km. Equipped with AESA radar, satellite communication systems and advanced weaponry such as SOM cruise missiles and guided bombs, the Akinci can perform reconnaissance, surveillance and long-range precision strike missions.
All these properties will allow the Alawite kingdom to use it in long-range operations and “complicated” areas for Rabat. The Akinci is designed for complex missions and has a wide range of armaments, including TRG-230 Kaplan air-to-surface ballistic missiles, SOM cruise missiles and Tolum bombs.
It is also the first drone capable of launching an air-launched cruise missile (ALCM), a technological advance that significantly enhances Morocco’s defense capabilities. Other munitions available include the Cirit laser-guided missile, the L-UMTAS long-range anti-tank missile, Bozok munitions and several air-to-air missiles, developed in collaboration with the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (Tübitak Sage).
High precision and surgical strikes
The Bayraktar Akinci is Morocco’s latest technological venture and is emerging as an important tool in its strategy to combat terrorism and asymmetric threats. This high-precision drone, equipped with advanced detection systems and the ability to carry out surgical strikes, makes it possible to secure strategic areas, especially on the borders, while minimizing the risk to deployed personnel.
With its acquisition, Morocco not only reinforces its own national security, but also expands its capacity to monitor vast territories and respond quickly to any challenge. Its operational versatility and high technology make it a key part of the country’s defense system, consolidating its position as an increasingly influential player in the region.
In terms of Spain’s security perspective, the Akinci could represent a potential threat by balancing the military balance in North Africa, expanding Morocco’s capacity to conduct offensive or surveillance operations in sensitive areas. Its range could theoretically cover strategic areas in southern Spain, such as the Strait of Gibraltar, increasing the need for reinforced surveillance on the southern flank. As always, any arms acquisition by our neighbor must be studied and appropriate measures taken in order to maintain the principle of “credible deterrence” with Rabat.
Increased investment in defense
In addition to the Akinci drones, Morocco has been making some interesting military acquisitions in recent years and certainly has plans to further strengthen its defense arsenal. All this in addition to the major effort it is making to significantly develop its defense industry, fostering this type of economy while reducing its military dependence on foreign powers.
Deliveries of the 13 Bayraktar TB2 drones purchased in 2021 began last September. In April 2023, Morocco shelled out $524 million to acquire HIMARS artillery rocket systems from the United States, strengthening its long-range strike capability. Morocco also has in the pipeline the purchase of 25 F-16C/D Block 72 fighter jets and the upgrade of 23 F-16s to the F-16V configuration, which will significantly improve its air capability. And already in outer space, in July 2024, Morocco reportedly plans to acquire an Ofek 13 spy satellite from Israel Aerospace Industries in a deal valued at $1 billion, which will strengthen its surveillance and intelligence capabilities.
Óscar Ruiz
Migration expert and international analyst
Career Marine Infantryman with more than 30 years of experience. Nine years assigned to NATO Headquarters in Belgium and Sarajevo developing intelligence and information security functions.
Military missions in Africa, America and Europe. Lecturer and speaker on subjects such as jihadist terrorism, migration challenges and maritime security.
