Ahmad 
The newspaper “El Espanyol” published a report on Spanish concerns regarding the major modernization of weapons carried out by Morocco.
The newspaper pointed out the accelerating pace of Moroccan armament, which includes the acquisition of advanced aircraft such as the F-16 and Mirage fighters, in addition to modernizing the fleet of armored vehicles.
The report explained that this armament is explained in the context of regional competition, especially with Algeria, as well as in light of the general increase in military spending globally due to current geopolitical tensions.
For his part, experts revealed the details of the large military deals concluded by Morocco, which included the acquisition of American tactical “ATACMS” missiles that were effectively used in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
The Kingdom of Morocco concluded an agreement with the US Department of Defense and Lockheed Martin to supply Morocco with HIMARS launchers and a number of missiles with a range of up to 300 kilometers, in addition to guided ammunition.
Strategic analyzes indicate that these steps by Morocco come within the framework of strengthening its presence and influence in the African Sahel region, which suffers from major security challenges, and in light of major countries such as the United States seeking to preserve their interests by relying on regional allies such as Morocco.
Although Morocco does not announce its defense budget, the Global Security Center estimated military spending in 2022 for Morocco at $5 billion, equivalent to 3.8% of GDP. This figure is considered higher than the global average (2.2%) and the Middle East and North region. Africa (3.1%).
Morocco ranked 55th in the world in terms of military spending in 2022, and this spending has witnessed an upward trend in recent years. In 2018, it was $4.2 billion, while it was $3.3 billion in 2014.
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