List of equipment of the Royal Moroccan Army explained

Modern equipment of the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces is a list of equipment currently in service with the Royal Moroccan Army. Sources are the United States Excess Defense Articles (EDA) database,[1] UNROCA[2],INSS Israel's Middle East Military Balance,[3] World Small Arms Inventory,[4] SIPRI Trade registers[5] and the Military Balance in the Middle East by CSIS,[6] and Army-Guide.

Infantry equipment

Individual equipment
NameImageOriginTypeNotes
SPECTRA helmetCombat helmetUsed by ground forces, large quantities, manufactured locally by MSA Mohammedia
Advanced Combat HelmetCombat helmetStandard issue helmet as of February 2024 (MKU Kavro MKH/ACH-7 version) . Locally produced .
Modular Integrated Communications HelmetCombat helmetUsed by special forces and naval infantry
Gallet TC 801Combat helmetused by special forces, produced locally by MSA Mohammedia
Future Assault Shell Technology helmetCombat helmetused by special forces
M1 helmetCombat helmetused for training, no longer in service
OG-107Combat uniformformer army combat uniform, replaced by a new one,[7] used for training
Camouflage Central-EuropeCombat uniformStill in use
Desert LizardCombat uniformStill in use by some units .
Red LizardCombat uniformStill in use by paratrooper units .
Operational Camouflage PatternCombat uniformUsed by the 1st Atlas Combat Brigade https://fr.hespress.com/287816-haut-atlas-exercice-interallie-entre-les-far-et-le-13e-bataillon-francais-de-bca.html
Personnel Armor System for Ground TroopsCombat helmetBulletproof vestPhased out .
Improved Outer Tactical VestBulletproof vestStandard issue bulletproof vest as of February 2024 . Locally Produced .
Combat Integrated Releasable Armor SystemBulletproof vestused by Saharan units .
AN/PVS-14Night-vision deviceused by ground forces and special forces
AN/PVS-7Night-vision deviceused by special forces
Pulsar EdgeNight-vision deviceUsed by special forces and ground forces
AMBIANight-vision deviceused by special forces
Leupold HAMRTelescopic sightmounted on the M4A1, used by special forces
Trijicon MRO® HDRed dot sightCoupled with a 3x flip magnifier, used by special forces .
Aimpoint CompM4Red dot sightmounted on the M4A1, used by paratroopers
Advanced Combat Optical Gunsightprismatic telescopic sightsmounted on M4 and M16A4, used by special forces
EOTechHolographic weapon sightmounted on various weapons, used by special forces
CornerShot IsraelWeapon accessoryseen in use by the GIGR
AN/PEQ-2Laser sight (firearms)Used by the special forces .
AN/PEQ-15Laser sight (firearms)Used by special forces .

Weapons

NameImageCaliberTypeOriginNotes
Pistols
Beretta 929×19mm ParabellumSemi-automatic pistolUsed by the police and several army/special forces units .
Browning Hi-Power9×19mm ParabellumSemi-automatic pistolUsed by paratroopers
MAC Mle 19509×19mm ParabellumSemi-automatic pistolUsed by royal gendarmerie
MAB PA-159×19mm ParabellumSemi-automatic pistolStandard service pistol
TT 337.62×25mmSemi-automatic pistolStill in use.
Glock 199x19 ParabellumSemi-automatic pistolUsed by special forces and BCIJ counter-terrorism forces and GIMR
Glock 179x19 ParabellumSemi-automatic pistolUsed by special forces . https://defense-arab.com/vb/attachments/581215/
Beretta Px4 Storm9×19mm Parabellum
.40 S&W
.45 ACP
Semi-automatic pistolin use with the BCI and BRI police squads
Submachine guns
IWI Tavor X959×19mm ParabellumSubmachine gun IsraelX95 SMG variant, seen in a police parade https://ledesk.ma/desintox/tavor-israelien-la-dgsn-joue-sur-les-mots-pour-dementir/
Heckler & Koch MP59×19mm ParabellumSubmachine gunUsed by tank crews. A3 version for special forces (GSIGR,BCIJ), customisable, all versions in use
Brügger & Thomet MP99×19mm Parabellumsubmachine gun SwitzerlandUsed by the GIMR (Groupe D'intervention de la Marine Royale)
MP5K9×19mm Parabellumsubmachine gunSeen in use by the GSIGR units .
Shotguns
Mossberg 50012 gaugeShotgunUsed by the army
Benelli M412 gaugeShotgunUsed by counter-terrorism forces and anti -narcotics
Franchi SPAS-1212 gaugeShotgunUsed by the royal gendarmerie
Rifles
AK-1037.62×39mmAssault rifleUsed by paratroopers (2eme BIP), the Mountain brigade and some army units
AK-1055.45×39mmAssault rifleUsed by the 1st BIP
Beretta AR70/905.56×45mm NATOAssault rifle
VCD-155.56×45mm NATO.300 AAC BlackoutAssault rifleUsed by special forces https://atlanticactu.com/a-loccasion-du-flintlock-2023-les-forces-speciales-marocaines-devoilent-leur-nouveau-fusil-dassaut/
Heckler & Koch HK4165.56x45 NATOAssault rifleSeen in use by the GOS brigade in Qatar https://twitter.com/anassmedia8/status/1332431369616707586?lang=ar-x-fm
M16A45.56x45 NATOAssault rifleUsed by marine commandos and BCI units .
M4 carbine5.56x45 NATOAssault rifleUsed by the paratroopers and special forces (MSOF and GOS team)
Steyr AUG5.56×45mm NATOAssault rifleUsed by the BCI and the BRI squads, all versions in use
SAR 215.56×45mm NATOAssault rifleUsed by gendarmerie units, royal guard and paratroopers .
FN F20005.56×45mm NATOAssault rifleHeavily used in the Royal Gendarmerie, all variants are customisable
Misr7.62×39mmAssault rifleStandard infantry assault rifle of Royal Moroccan Army.
M16A1/2/3/45.56x45 NATOAssault rifle
FN CAL[8] 5.56x45mm NATOAssault rifle
FN FAL7.62×51mm NATOBattle rifle
Pistol Mitralieră model 1963/19657.62x39mmAssault rifle
Type 567.62×39mmAssault rifle
Heckler & Koch G37.62×51mm NATOBattle rifleUsed as a battle rifle and a marksmanship rifle (PSG1)
AMD-657.62×39mmAssault rifleUsed by the GSI
Machine guns
M2495.56×45mm NATOlight machine gun
Ultimax 1005.56×45mm NATOGeneral-purpose machine gun
FN MAG7.62×51mm NATOGeneral-purpose machine gunMAG-60-20 Infanterie T1 https://salw-guide.bicc.de/pdf/countries/138/maroc.std.fr.pdf
M240 machine gun7.62×51mm NATOGeneral-purpose machine gunStandard medium machine gun, all variants https://www.dsca.mil/sites/default/files/EDA_Public_Report_2020-06-15.xlsx
MG 3 machine gun7.62×51mm NATOGeneral-purpose machine gun
PK machine gun7.62×54mmRGeneral-purpose machine gun
RPK7.62×39mmLight machine gunno longer in service
M60 machine gun7.62×51mm NATOGeneral-purpose machine gun
M134 Minigun7.62×51mm NATORotary Medium machine gunUsed mostly on helicopters
M2 Browning.50 BMGHeavy machine gunUsed mostly on vehicles and tanks
DShK12.7×108mmHeavy machine gunno longer in service
NSV machine gun12.7×108mmHeavy machine gunUsed on T-72 tanks, still in service
M621 cannon20 mm caliberAutocannonUsed on the Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma and the Aérospatiale Gazelle, close air support roles
20 mm modèle F2 gun20 mm caliberAutocannonMounted on the Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé, VAB VCI 6x6 Toucan I version, used for counter-sniping and fire-support roles
Sniper rifles
M14NM7.62×51mm NATOSniper rifle
Remington Model 700.338 Lapua MagnumBolt actionUsed by the DGST SF, Model 700 and Magpul Pro 700 https://magpul.com/pro-700-folding-stock.html versions in use.
PGM Ultima Ratio7.62×51mm NATOSniper rifleStandard-issue army sniper rifle
PGM 338.338 Lapua MagnumSniper rifleUsed by the Royal Gendarmerie.
HK PSG17.62×51mm NATOSniper rifleUsed by paratroopers.
M1107.62×51mm NATOsemi-automatic precision rifleLarge amounts were purchased for the GFS/GOS teams
Tikka T3.308 WinchesterSniper rifleUsed by GSIGR snipers, Tikka T3x Tac A1 variant https://x.com/CaelumPugnator/status/1806646571137744975 .
SR-257.62×51mm NATODesignated marksman riflesemi-automatic Sniper rifleAppeared in African Lion 2024, used by special forces, SR-25 E2 variant .
Mk 13 Mod 5.300 Winchester MagnumSniper rifleUnited StatesAppeared in African Lion 2024, used by special forces .
Barrett M82.50 BMGSemi-automatic rifleAnti-materiel rifleUsed by the GIMR, M107 variant
FR F2 sniper rifle7.62×51mm NATOSniper rifle
LA115A3.338 Lapua MagnumSniper rifleUsed by the GOS/GFS team, small numbers
M24 Sniper Weapon System7.62×51mm NATOBolt action Sniper rifleused in many versions by the BCIJ and the GIGR
Grenade launchers
M203 grenade launcher40 mmgrenade launcherM203,M203A1and M203A2 all in service in the army and special forces https://www.dsca.mil/sites/default/files/EDA_Public_Report_2020-06-15.xlsx. large stock
40 mmAutomatic grenade launcherLarge quantities
Milkor MGL40 mmGrenade launcherUsed by law enforcement and ground forces
STK 40 AGL40 mmAutomatic grenade launcherLarge quantities
The Royal Moroccan Army employs various individual weapons to provide light firepower at short ranges. The main weapons used by the army are the M16A2 and AK-47 variants (Chinese Type 56, Romanian AIM/AIMS, Egyptian Misr, Yugoslav Zastava M70AB2) in the Southern Sector, and the G3A3, FN FAL/FN CAL and M16A1/A2/A4 in the Northern Sector. The AK-74/ AKS-74U, SAR 21, AK-103, Steyr AUG A1/A2/A3, MP5A3, M4 carbine and FN SCAR are used by different units as the Paratroopers, the Royal Guard, Security Forces and others units in the Navy and Air force.

The sidearms in the RMA are the MAB PA-15 for Active service, and Beretta 92 for specialized forces (Paratroopers, Special Forces, Security Forces, etc.)

Many units are supplemented with a variety of specialized weapons, those are the M249, HK11A1, FN Minimi, FALO-50-41, Ultimax 100, PK/PKM, RPD and RPK-74 to provide suppressive fire at the fire-team level. The M14NM and EBR are used by long-range marksmen, and the M82A1, the FR-F2, and the PGM Ultima Ratio are used by snipers. The Army also uses Automatic grenade launchers (AGLs) such as the STK 40 AGL or the Mk 47 Striker[9] both used on VAMTACs LUVs (Light Utility Vehicles) and handled by infantry units.

Other weapons used for training, exercises or parades are :

Crew served weapons

Coaxial Machine Guns and Automatic cannons:

The army uses different types of mortars for indirect fire support when heavier artillery may not be appropriate or available. The smallest of these are the 60mm M2 and MO 60. At the next higher echelon, the support can come from the 107mm M30 mortar, the 120mm M120 and MO-120-RT,120MM ECIA MORTAR AND 120MM NORINCO W86 MORTAR, or the 160mm Mortar M1943. A hundred of self-propelled mortars are also in RMA's inventory (See Below)

Anti-tank weapons

The Royal Moroccan Army employs a variety of anti-tank weapons, ranging from disposable, man-portable rockets to armored tank destroyers equipped with guided missiles.

Portable anti-tank rockets are employed by the infantry. Recoilless rifles are still in use, often mounted on trucks or other military vehicles, but they are being replaced by more effective anti-tank guided missiles. Tank destroyers represent the most mobile and best protected anti-tank weapons in service. Older gun-armed vehicles are being replaced by missile-equipped vehicles. Several of the army's infantry fighting vehicles are likewise equipped with anti-tank missiles, adding to the anti-tank weaponry available in the field.

Anti-tank weapons of the Royal Moroccan Army
System Type Origin ImageQty Notes
M40A1Recoilless rifle United States350
SPG-9496 https://www.unroca.org/ ATGL-H Bulgarian version
B-10Obsolete
RK-3 CorsarAnti-tank guided missileU/Nhttps://www.menadefense.net/afnord/apparition-du-korsar-chez-les-forces-terrestres-marocaines/
BGM-71 TOW(1,200) TOW 2A, Radio Frequency (RF) Missiles (BGM-71-4B-RF)(2,401) TOW 2A, Radio Frequency (RF) Missiles (BGM-71-4B-RF); and twenty eight (28) TOW 2A, Radio Frequency (RF) Missiles (BGM-71-4B-RF), Fly-to-Buy missiles for lot acceptance testing; and Four hundred (400) M220A2 TOW Launchers and/or four hundred (400) M41 Improved Target Acquisition System (ITAS) Launchers.https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/morocco-tow-2a-radio-frequency-rf-missiles-bgm-71-4b-rf https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/government-morocco-tow-2a-radio-frequency-rf-missiles-bgm-71-4b-rf-and
Skif (anti-tank guided missile)125 launchers,1000 missileshttps://www.unroca.org/
FGM-148 Javelin200 LWCLU launchers https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/morocco-javelin-missiles
Spike LR2 IsraelMorocco acquired the LR2 ATGM https://www.defensa.com/africa-asia-pacifico/marruecos-recibe-misiles-spike-drones-suicidas-israel
Spike NLOS IsraelMorocco acquired the NLOS ATGM https://www.defensa.com/africa-asia-pacifico/marruecos-recibe-misiles-spike-drones-suicidas-israel
AGM-114 HellfireAGM-114L/R variants, used on the AH-64E attack helicopterhttps://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/morocco-ah-64e-helicopters
9M133 KornetKornet-E version seen in 2019 https://www.army-technology.com/projects/kornet/, large quantities
9M113 KonkursKonkurs-M version, acquired via India https://www.armyrecognition.com/russia_russian_army_light_heavy_weapons_uk/at-5_spandrel_9k113_konkurs_konkurs-m_anti-tank_missile_technical_data_sheet_specifications_pictures.html. Large quantities
9K115-2 Metis-M[10] Large quantities
MILAN France
~850
HJ-8LU/N
HOT (missile) FranceU/Nhttps://far-maroc.forumpro.fr/t1358-missiles-anti-char-des-far-moroccan-atgm HOT-1 and HOT-2 versions, mounted on Aérospatiale Gazelle
HJ-9U/Nhttps://www.udefense.info/threads/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%88%D8%AE-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D9%8A%D9%86%D9%8A-hj-9a-%D8%A8%D8%AD%D9%88%D8%B2%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%A9.19371/, seen in manoeuvres in the northern sector https://www.defense-arabic.com/2021/07/05/%D8%B8%D9%87%D9%88%D8%B1-%D9%86%D8%B8%D8%A7%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%AE-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%A9-%D9%84%D9%84%D8%AF%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%AA-hj-9a/
M47 Dragon United States440 LaunchersLarge stock of missiles http://www.military-today.com/missiles/m47_dragon.htm
9M14 Malyutka50
Cobra (missile)~250 Used on the UR-416 APC https://far-maroc.forumpro.fr/t3270-ur-416
LRAC-F1Shoulder-launched missile weapon France2000+
APILAS France1000+
Type 69Anti-tank rocketBipod launcher
RPG-7V[11] [12]
AT4 United StatesU/NAT4CS version https://far-maroc.forumpro.fr/t837p60-armes-d-infanterie-chez-les-far-moroccan-small-arms-inventory
M72 LAW United States500+
M20 Super BazookaAnti-tank rocketLimited use; obsolescent
M901 ITVTank destroyer105 https://farmorocco.wordpress.com/royal-moroccan-army/equipment/apcsifvssuport-vehicles/

Vehicles

Utility vehicles

The RMA's high-mobility multipurpose vehicles serves as cargo/troop carrier, weapons platform, and ambulance, among many other roles. 4000 HMMWV[13] in different versions, 1,200 URO VAMTACs and 800 URO VAM-TL[14] are part of RMAs inventory, which also includes various CUCVs. 378 GM Defense CUCVs (138 M1008, 188 M1009 and 52 M1028) and 278 M151s were received, and an unknown number of Santana Motor's Land Rover Model 88/106, Toyota FJ40, Jeep Auverland and Nissan Patrol ML-6 are also in service. An unknown number of ACMAT ALTV have also been purchased.[15]

Military logistics' missions are the storage, distribution, maintenance, evacuation, and disposition of materiel, the transport of personnel, the acquisition or construction, maintenance, operation, and disposition of facilities, the acquisition or furnishing of services and Medical and health service support. It is the most important part and considered the base for the main mission of the RMA. Because of its topography and extensive range of action, the transport and resupply of troops posted in the Wall and East Frontier, where aerial transport is impossible or counterproductive, the use of land transport is primordial. The amount of active equipment is unknown, but estimations are possible. The number of medium and heavy trucks, HETs and Palletized Load Systems (PLS) purchased or in service were 250 IVECO M3-21.14 TT, ~3500 M35 and Variants, 387 M54 and variants, ~1,000 M800 series, 195 M816 Wrecker, ~160 M900 series, ~1000 TRM10000/9000 BMH, 600 ACMAT VLRA and 92 Tata LPTA 2445.[16] An unknown number of Pegaso 3055, Mercedes-Benz Actros and Unimog are also in RMA's inventory. The Heavy Equipment Transport Systems (HETS) received were an unknown number of M746, 6 M747, 23 M1070, 133 M911 HETS and 100 IVECO TRACTOR. Two M1075 & M1076 Palletized load systems were also purchased.

Armoured recovery vehicles (ARV) are used to repair damaged as well as broken-down armoured vehicles during combat, or to tow them out of the danger zone for more extensive repairs. For this mission 86 M578, 10 SK-105 ARV, 4 VT1A ARV and 81 M88 Recovery Vehicles were acquired.

Military engineering vehicles are vehicles built for the construction work or for the transportation of combat engineers on the battlefield. Bulldozers are extensively used, all along with 6 M728 Combat Engineer Vehicle.[17]

Tanks

Around 1100 tanks are in service: 150 VT-1A, 222 M1A1SA & 162 M1A2M, 148 T-72B and 427 M60A3/A3TTS Patton. M48 Pattons were retired from active service and stored as reserve with the 1991 cease-fire, the SK-105 Kürassiers had the same fate. It was reported in December 2022 that Morocco was transferring T-72s to Ukraine.[18]

OriginModelTypeQuantityNotes
United StatesM1 Abrams384 tanks:-222 M1A1SA -162 M1A2 SEPv3[19]
M60 Patton427 tanks :-260 M60A3- +167 M60A3 TTSstill in use, upgraded locally [20]
M48 Patton225locally upgraded, some units are in reserve
China
VT-1A Al Khalid54[21] [22] [23] 54 received in 2011, the rest was cancelled due to engine replacement issues[24]
BelarusT-72B/BK158 (6th royal armored brigade:The Russian brigade) 136 T-72B and 12 T-72BK,[25] 14 T-72M1 tanks were procured and upgraded from the Czech Excalibur company, all existing units were upgraded with the company in Morocco https://fr.hespress.com/294136-les-far-relookent-leur-flotte-de-chars-t-72b-mbts-chez-excalibur-army.html adding CITV, and other advanced equipements
FranceAMX-10 RCTank destroyer108 https://far-maroc.forumpro.fr/t4616-amx-10rc-des-far-moroccan-amx-10rc
AustriaSK-105 KürassierLight tank116[26] They are held in reserve, locally modernized and used in the moroccan sahara

Armoured personnel carriers, infantry fighting vehicles and support vehicles

ModelImageOriginTypeQuantityNotes
Armoured personnel carriers/Infantry fighting vehicles
Bradley Fighting Vehicle United StatesInfantry fighting vehicle<500 https://lecollimateur.ma/128338http://ledesk.ma/enoff/des-missiles-antichars-americains-tow-potentiellement-combines-a-des-blindes-bradley-pour-le-maroc/On-Point defense was contracted to supply TOW launchers and related equipment to the Bradley IFV for both Morocco and Ukraine.
AIFV11019 AIFV-B-.50 + 90 AIFV-B-C25 + 1 AIFV-B-CP
AMX-10P France10
BMP-360https://fr.le360.ma/politique/les-far-acquierent-60-vehicules-de-combat-dinfanterie-bmp-3-aupres-de-la-russie-51049
Ratel IFV South Africa60 30 Ratel 20 + 30 Ratel 90
Eland armoured car South AfricaReconnaissance60Eland 20/90
BRDM-2Amphibious armoured Scout carU/N
AML 60/90 FranceLight armored vehicle175 140 AML-90, 20 AML-90 Lynx and 35 AML-60
Panhard ERC FranceArmored car (military)U/N
M113 United StatesArmoredPersonnel

Carrier

~1900[27] 1200 M113A1, M113A2, 419 M113A3, 86 M577A2 (CP), 80 M901, 60 M163, 36 M106A2, 91 M1064A3
VAB VCI/VTT France400[28] 75 VAB VCI+ 320 VAB VTT+ 5 more of unknown type,they had been modernised and upgraded locally under the name "ifrane".
OT-64 SKOT95https://www.militaryfactory.com/armor/by-country.php?Nation=Morocco
Thyssen Henschel UR-41670https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/morocco/army-equipment.htm
Panhard M3 France54
Ejder YalçınArmored car34 (30 procured from Turkey with the SERDAR RCWS, 4 were given from the UAE as a gift)https://www.defensehere.com/en/report--morocco-looks-to-buy-ejder-yalcin-armored-vehicle
Otokar Cobra220 (200 for the ground forces + 20 for peacekeepers)Morocco purchased the Cobra II MRAP vehicles https://www.africaintelligence.fr/afrique-du-nord/2024/01/16/des-blindes-turcs-pour-les-casques-bleus-marocains,110146980-bre https://www.hespress.com/%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%AD%D9%81%D8%B8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B3%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%A8%D8%B9%D8%A9-%D9%84%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%8A%D8%B4-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A-1298828.html?fbclid=IwAR1NE8g2Mhmdz_WV-mRD712k18wdx0z0u5wZ7gvUesZo_Sr9TPNHkZ5sqfw
HMMWV United States4000[29] all versions
URO VAMTAC's+1200locally assembled under the name Atlas
Hawkei AustraliaU/NThis armored vehicle appeared in a trailer for a movie that featured Moroccan military vehicles.
Sherpa Light France36APC version ordered for CAESAR crews and special forces
Cougar (MRAP) United StatesU/Nas seen in the photo, Cougar 6x6 is in service, seen in a Chinese-Moroccan film
Lenco BearCat United States88https://www.lencoarmor.com/lenco-latest/lenco-industries-completes-88-unit-morocco-tactical-vehicle-contract/ used by the auxiliary forces and peacekeeping forces
Polaris RZR United StatesTactical vehicleU/Nused by M-SOF. https://defense-arab.com/vb/threads/157605/

Drones

Lately after the relations between Morocco and Israel were strengthened, many weapons were procured, including drones and loitering munitions

!Name!Type!Picture!Numbers!Origin!Notes
IAI HaropLoitering munitionLarge quantities, locally manufacturedhttps://www.lopinion.ma/Armement-le-Maroc-s-equipe-de-drones-kamikazes-israeliens-pour-22-millions-de-dollars_a21358.html https://www.iai.co.il/morocco-israel https://medias24.com/2022/03/23/aeronautique-israel-aerospace-industries-sinstalle-au-maroc/
IAI HarpyLarge quantities, locally manufacturedhttps://www.defensa.com/africa-asia-pacifico/marruecos-encuentra-entre-operadores-uav-israeli-hermes-900
Large quantities, seen with the PULS MLRS, to be manufactured locally .https://www.defense-arabic.com/2023/05/20/%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AC%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%AA-puls-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%85%D8%B2%D9%88%D8%AF%D8%A9-%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D8%B1%D9%88%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7/
SpyXSeen in use by the Moroccan ground forces, manufactured locally .https://fr.hespress.com/319500-le-maroc-premier-acquereur-des-drones-kamikazes-israeliens-spyx.html
Hero droneReported to have been exported to Morocco https://www.defense-arabic.com/2021/11/26/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8-%D9%8A%D8%AD%D8%B5%D9%84-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%AF%D8%B1%D9%88%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D9%87%D8%AC%D9%88%D9%85%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%A5%D8%B3%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%A6%D9%8A%D9%84/
Wander-B VTOLIntelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissanceSeen in use by Morocco, 150 in servicehttps://ledesk.ma/2022/09/22/larmee-marocaine-expose-le-drone-wanderb-vtol-acquis-aupres-de-lisraelien-bluebird/
Thunder-B VTOLIntelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissanceSeen in use by Morocco, 150 in servicehttps://ledesk.ma/enoff/nouveau-deploiement-de-drones-israeliens-thunderb-par-le-maroc/
Thunder-BIntelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissanceExported to Morocco https://fr.hespress.com/280890-le-maroc-acquiert-150-drones-wanderb-et-thunderb-a-lisraelien-bluebird.html

Artillery

The Artillery, grouped in GARs, includes self-propelled howitzers, towed howitzers, multiple launch rocket systems and air defense systems, mortar carriers are part of the RIMZ.

The equipment includes: 300+ 155mm M109 SPH in different versions, 60 203mm M110A2 SPH, received as EDA from USA, and 100 155mm Mk F3 remain in service. Only 155mm towed howitzers are deployed all along the Moroccan Wall, that includes 140 155mm (M198, FH-70, M-1950, M114), 18 130mm (M1954). Besides this 54 105mm (M101 and L118) are deployed in different regions.

2 Battalions of multiple launch rocket are also listed as part of RMAs inventory, the first with 36 122mm BM-21 and the second with 36 300mm AR2.

Self-propelled artillery
ModelCountry of originTypeQuantityNotesImage
M109 United StatesSelf-propelled howitzer357
2S19 Msta-SU/NRosoboronexport Deputy chief Viktor Komardin announced that Russia has delivered to Morocco a batch of Msta-S self-propelled howitzershttps://web.archive.org/web/20160916215506/http://tass.ru/en/russia/696492
Mk F3 155 mm France100https://histoire-militaire.pagesperso-orange.fr/infanterie/MkF3.htm. Locally modernized with new data links and new software and a new weapon system
CAESAR36[30]
M110 United States60
Towed artillery
L118 United KingdomField gun36 https://farmorocco.wordpress.com/royal-moroccan-army/equipment/artillery/
M101 United States58https://farmorocco.wordpress.com/royal-moroccan-army/equipment/artillery/
130 mm towed field gun M1954 (M-46)18https://farmorocco.wordpress.com/royal-moroccan-army/equipment/artillery/
FH70 United KingdomHowitzer36https://farmorocco.wordpress.com/royal-moroccan-army/equipment/artillery/
M114 United States123https://farmorocco.wordpress.com/royal-moroccan-army/equipment/artillery/
M198 howitzer35https://farmorocco.wordpress.com/royal-moroccan-army/equipment/artillery/
Rocket artillery
BM-21Multiple rocket launcher36 122mm,[31] APR-21 Romanian version, still in service
M142 HIMARS United States18a 524 million USD deal, along with munitions and related systems https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/morocco-high-mobility-artillery-rocket-systems-himars
PHL-03 China72300mm, AR2 version with a range of 140 km, 1m CEP https://medias24.com/2015/08/17/defense-le-maroc-desormais-equipe-en-lance-roquettes-de-tres-longue-portee/
Lynx (multiple rocket launcher)>36300mm, PULS variant with a range of 300 km https://lecollimateur.ma/119789https://ledesk.ma/enoff/un-contrat-de-150-m-pour-les-lance-missiles-puls-delbit-systems-destines-au-maroc/
Astros IIU/N450mm https://lareleve.ma/97365/
Weishi Rockets36 400mm https://www.assahafa.com/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%8A%D8%B4-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D9%8A%D8%AA%D8%B3%D9%84%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D9%81%D8%B9%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D9%88%D9%84%D9%89-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%B5/ https://www.armyrecognition.com/february_2018_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/chinese_ws-2d_rocket_launchers_for_morocco.html WS-2D version with a range of 400 km
Ballistic missiles
Predator HawkShort-range ballistic missile300 kmPredator Hawk was officially confirmed when it appeared with the moroccan PULS MLRS https://www.atalayar.com/fr/articulo/politique/le-maroc-renforce-son-armement-militaire-avec-le-lance-missiles-israelien-puls/20230330173200182396.html
LORA (missile)Short-range ballistic missile430 km https://www.iai.co.il/p/loraShai Cohen, the Special Envoy, Defense and Security Exports & Cooperation director, announced that Israel gave morocco all kinds of ballistic technology https://www.maghress.com/alayam24/431996
MGM-140 ATACMS United StatesTactical ballistic missile300 kmMorocco purchased 40 M57 ATACMS with a range of 300 km, along with the HIMARS system https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/morocco-high-mobility-artillery-rocket-systems-himars
Cruise missiles
Sea Breaker (missile)Cruise missile300 kmWas purchased to guarantee the safety of his coasts https://www.bladi.net/maroc-missiles-israeliens-controle-detroit,88820.html
Delilah (missile)Air-launched cruise missile250 kmUsed on the F-5E TII/III platforms https://fr.le360.ma/politique/acquisition-par-le-maroc-des-redoutables-missiles-delilah-de-lisraelien-elbit-le-contrat-se-precise_QJJMGPNRS5HYVP7VATCUJQFXMU/https://ledesk.ma/encontinu/le-maroc-negocie-lachat-de-missiles-de-croisiere-israeliens-pour-ses-f-5/https://www.bladi.net/maroc-missile-israelien-delilah,94209.html
Harpoon (missile) United StatesAir-launched cruise missile124 kmUsed on the F-16C/Dhttps://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/morocco-agm-84l-harpoon-air-launched-block-ii-missiles
AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon United StatesAir-launched cruise missile130 kmMorocco purchased the JSOW-C variant, to be used on the F-16C/Dhttps://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/morocco-joint-stand-weapons-jsow
YJ-12Anti-ship cruise missile300 kmDefensa reported that Morocco is in negotiations for the YJ-12B AShCM https://rue20.com/747596.html
Self-propelled mortar
M125A1 United StatesMortar carrier20 With an 81 mm M29 mortar
M106491
AML-60 France35 With a Brandt Mle CM60A1

Air defense systems

After years of negligence of its air defense capabilities Morocco shifted its air defense strategy, investing heavily in new air defense bases and systems.[32]

Morocco has been slowly building a multi-layered air defense system consisting of HIMAD and SHORAD systems in order to give Moroccan air space maximum protection.[33]

Moroccan air defense system consists of the newly acquired advanced long range Chinese HIMAD systems the FD-2000B with a maximum range of 250 km range,[34] the Chinese Sky Dragon 50 with a maximum range of 50 km,[32] the Barak 8 MX with multiple layers of coverage (35–150 km), and the American Patriot PAC-3 MSE with a range of 60 km against ballistic missiles

The man-portable air-defense systems used by the infantry are the 9K32 "Strela-2" (SA-7 Grail), 9K38 "Igla" (SA-18 Grouse).

Other systems include AAG as M1939 (61-K), ZU-23-2 or M167 VADS, usually mounted on LUVs and CUCVs.

This list shows only the publicly-known air defenses.

ModelOriginTypeNotesImage
Surface-to-air missiles
HQ-9B ChinaHIMAD4 batteries,FD-2000B variant, each of the 4 batteries consists of 6-8 transporter erector launchers,[35] maximum range: 250 km
Barak 8 Israel
India
>6 batteries https://ledesk.ma/enoff/un-accord-israelo-marocain-de-500-m-sur-le-systeme-de-defense-antimissile-barak-mx/, the version ordered is the Barak MX, with a range up to 150 km
MIM-104 Patriot United StatesUnknownThe type will be PAC-3 MSE standard.
Sky Dragon 50 China>7 batterieshttps://www.menadefense.net/afnord/apparition-du-sky-dragon-50-au-maroc/. 50 km range, IBIS 200 radar with a range of 200 km
MICA FranceSHORAD4-6 batteriesEach of the batteries will consist of four to six launcher units [36] [37] all received
SPYDER IsraelU/NDefensa cited that Morocco has chosen the SPYDER AD https://fr.hespress.com/306809-spyder-un-systeme-de-defense-aerienne-dans-le-viseur-du-maroc.html
Aster (missile family) France
Italy
Used in the FREMM multipurpose frigate, has a range of above 30 km, Aster 15 variant
Aspide FranceUsed in the Descubierta-class corvette, 25 km range, ordered between 1977 and 1983
Crotale France(Crotale NG and Mk.3)https://www.lemonde.fr/archives/article/1978/05/11/la-france-livrera-au-maroc-un-systeme-de-defense-antiaerienne_2980716_1819218.html
Mistral (missile) Francehttps://lecollimateur.ma/30916 Mistral 3 version, will be used on the Sherpa Light APC
MIM-72 Chaparral United States72 vehicles, 504 missilesUnknown
9K32 Strela-2MANPADSU/N
9K38 IglaU/N
Self-propelled anti-aircraft weapons
Tunguska M1Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun12 batteries, 72 vehicles2K22M1 version
ZU-23-4100ZU-23-4
M163 United States115
Anti-aircraft guns
ZPUAnti-aircraft gunLarge quantities ZPU-2

ZPU-4

ZU-23-2Anti-aircraft gunLarge quantities
M167 VADS
United States72
Type 90 China12 batteries

Radars

ModelOriginImageTypeQuantityNotes
MSSR United StatesAir radarU/N
AN/TPS-63 United StatesAir radarhttp://aviationweek.com/awin/morocco-becomes-first-deploy-upgraded-tps-63-radars the majority of the radars have been upgraded to the TPS-63 MSSR which has a range of 740 km
EL/M-2084 IsraelAir radarU/Npart of the Barak 8 system, has a max range of 475 km, Active electronically scanned array radar
YLC-2 Radar ChinaAir radarU/Nhttps://www.hespress.com/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8-%D9%8A%D9%82%D8%AA%D9%86%D9%8A-%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%B5%D9%8A%D9%86%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%84%D8%AA%D9%82%D9%88%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%85%D8%B1%D8%A7-259995.html YLC-2V version with a range of 500 km, entered service in 2012
Ground Master 403 FranceAir radar5https://ledesk.ma/enoff/menaces-aeriennes-le-radar-ground-master-400-de-thales-livre-au-maroc/ 2 acquired in 2021
AN/TPS-77 United StatesAir radarhttps://www.bladi.info/threads/armements-des-radars-tps-77-mrr-pour-le-maroc.514646/ 463 km in range, depending on the state of deployment, AN/TPS-77 MRR version
AN/TPS-43 United StatesAir radarhttps://medias24.com/2018/02/12/maroc-la-defense-aerienne-renforce-ses-capacites-de-riposte/ 450 km range.
AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel United StatesAir radar8https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/morocco-sentinel-anmpq-64f1-radars AN/MPQ-64F1 version
RASIT FranceGround radarU/Nhttps://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rasit
AF902 FC SwitzerlandAir radarUN Chinese copy of Skyguard[38]
BOR-A 550 FranceU/N
AN/PPS-5A United StatesGround radarU/N
AN/MPQ-49 Forward Area Alerting Radar United StatesAir radarU/Nhttps://cmano-db.com/pdf/facility/2230/
Stentor battlefield radar FranceGround radar20
ARSS-1 United StatesGround radar12
Bur radarGround radarU/Nhttps://www.waffenexporte.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Waffen-Ex_Marokko.pdf

Electronic Warfare

N.B : this list does not contain all EW systems used by Morocco

ModelOriginTypeNotesQuantity
Alinet system IsraelElectronic warfare/Signals intelligencehttps://www.bladi.net/maroc-systeme-israelien-alinet-ew-sigint,97626.html https://www.military.africa/2022/11/elibit-supplies-alinet-ew-and-sigint-system-to-morocco/ 70 million USD deal with Elbit SystemsU/N
KORAL-EW TurkeyElectronic warfareMorocco signed a deal withTurkish Aselsan to buy KORAL-EW.[39] [40] U/N
Bukovel (counter unmanned aircraft system)used as an anti-drone system, has a 70–100 km detection range and 15 km jamming rangehttps://www.menadefense.net/afnord/le-maroc-achete-un-systeme-anti-drones-ukrainien-bukovel-ad/
SkyLock Dome Israelalso used as an anti-drone system https://ledesk.ma/enoff/le-maroc-sequipe-du-skylock-dome-systeme-israelien-anti-drones/
AARTOS systemanti-drone system, used by the royal gendarmerie https://fr.le360.ma/politique/video-lutte-anti-drones-la-gendarmerie-royale-acquiert-un-systeme-de-detection-hyperefficace-166933/

Notes and References

  1. http://www.dsca.mil/programs/eda Excess Defense Articles (EDA) Database
  2. https://www.unroca.org/
  3. Web site: Morocco . 2 March 2014 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20150617081928/http://www.inss.org.il/upload/(FILE)1311071599.pdf . 17 June 2015 .
  4. http://worldinventory.googlepages.com/wiw_af_morocco wiw_af_morocco – worldinventory
  5. http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php Trade Registers
  6. http://csis.org/files/media/csis/pubs/me_mb_assess.pdf The Military Balance in the Middle East – February 19, 2004
  7. Web site: Morocco Telegraph | the Moroccan army is changing its uniform to a modern one . 13 July 2021 .
  8. https://web.archive.org/web/20100212105042/http://sites.google.com/site/worldinventory/wiw_af_morocco. 2010-02-12. Archived from the original on 12 February 2010. Retrieved 1/12/2024.
  9. Morocco, Spain, Portugal, France, Chile, Brazil = MK47 Auto Grenade Launcher http://www.pmddtc.state.gov/reports/congnotify_111.html
  10. http://defense-update.com/products/m/metis_m_31122010.html KBP Metis M/ M1 AT Guided Missile
  11. Jones, Richard D. Jane's Infantry Weapons 2008–09. Jane's Information Group; 34 edition (2008).
  12. Jones, Richard D. Jane's Infantry Weapons 2009/2010. Jane's Information Group; 35 edition (27 January 2009). .
  13. Web site: Excess Defense Articles (EDA) | Defense Security Cooperation Agency.
  14. News: España vende a Rabat 1.200 blindados como los usados en Afganistán España EL PAÍS. El País. 5 February 2007. Cembrero. Ignacio.
  15. Web site: Vlra2 Bastion . 2 March 2014 . 28 February 2014 . https://web.archive.org/web/20140228060831/http://www.alm-acmat.com/article-eurosatory-2012-acmat-etoffe-son-offre-106684216.html . dead .
  16. Web site: 2023-01-17 . Moroccan Army Receives TATA Trucks TURDEF . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240616025933/https://turdef.com/article/moroccan-army-receives-tata-trucks . 2024-06-16 . 2024-07-24 . turdef.com . en.
  17. http://www.dsca.mil/programs/eda/results.asp?CtryName=MOROCCO&FY=2005&IANAME=&TRANSTYPE= 2005 Excess Defence Articles for Morocco
  18. News: Morocco choose sides, supplies T-72B tanks to Ukraine . military.africa . Ekene . Lionel . 2022-12-19 . 2024-01-31.
  19. Web site: Morocco's armament raises concern in Spain The North Africa Post. 2021-02-09. northafricapost.com.
  20. Web site: 2021-01-30. Royal Moroccan Armed Forces. 2021-05-10. defenceWeb. en-ZA.
  21. Web site: Armor: Chinese Tanks In North Africa. 2021-02-09. www.strategypage.com.
  22. Web site: Armor: Chinese Tanks in North Africa.
  23. http://www4.janes.com/subscribe/jdw/doc_view.jsp?K2DocKey=/content1/janesdata/mags/jdw/history/jdw2012/jdw49361.htm@current&Prod_Name=JDW&QueryText= "The acquisition of the US and Chinese tanks will allow Morocco to retire much of its existing tank fleet" Janes Defence Weekly 2012/06/20
  24. https://www.un.org/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=A/67/212 UN Register of Conventional Arms
  25. Web site: 2014-11-23. T-72 main battle tank (1972). 2020-06-06. Tank Encyclopedia. en-US.
  26. Web site: 2018-04-04. More upgraded Abrams tanks on the way to Morocco. 2021-05-27. defenceWeb. en-ZA.
  27. Web site: The Military Balance. 2021-12-29. IISS. en.
  28. Web site: 2011-06-13. Chars français - 1976 Renault VAB VCI. 2021-03-24. https://web.archive.org/web/20110613022842/http://www.chars-francais.net/new/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=50&Itemid=41. 13 June 2011.
  29. Web site: 2021-01-30. Royal Moroccan Armed Forces. 2021-11-23. defenceWeb. en-ZA.
  30. Web site: 2020-05-25. Morocco acquiring new air defence systems. 2021-01-14. defenceWeb. en-ZA.
  31. Web site: Nexter Caesar self propelled guns for Moroccan army. 2021-01-04. www.globaldefencemart.com.
  32. Web site: Defensa.com. 2021-12-19. Marruecos inaugura su primera base de defensa aérea de largo alcance con una batería china FD-2000B. 2021-12-24. www.defensa.com. es.
  33. Web site: 2021-12-21. Morocco Opens First Military Base with Chinese Air Defense. 2021-12-24. The Defense Post. en-US.
  34. Web site: China's FD-2000B air defense system will guard Moroccan base. 2021-12-24. bulgarianmilitary.com.
  35. Web site: FD-2000 long range air defense missile system technical data China Chinese army missile systems vehicles Chinese China army military equipment armoured UK. 2021-12-23. www.armyrecognition.com.
  36. Web site: 2020-06-04. Morocco To Acquire New Air Defense Systems. 2021-12-24. Defense.info. en-US.
  37. Web site: VL MICA Ground Based Air Defence, MICA Solution. 2021-12-24. MBDA. en-US.
  38. A AF902 Artillery fire control system and radar, part of a RMA convoy seen in Morocco http://farmorocco.wordpress.com/2013/10/28/confirmed-af902-fc535-mm-aa-gun-air-defence-system/
  39. Web site: GDC. 2021-06-23. Turkish Aselsan Inks $50.7 Million Export Deal With Morocco For Koral-EW. 2021-07-18. Global Defense Corp. en-US.
  40. Web site: Morocco signs $50.7 million deal with Turkey to acquire 'Koral Electronic Warfare System'. 2021-07-18. Assahifa.