Africa: Morocco and SeaGuardian drones, a technological breakthrough in a changing geopolitical context
The normalization of relations between Morocco and Israel, facilitated by the Abraham Accords, has paved the way for significant diplomatic and commercial exchanges, including the sale of advanced military technologies. In this context, the sale of SeaGuardian military drones to Morocco is currently under review by the US Congress.
Manufactured by General Atomics, these drones represent a major advancement in Morocco’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
Their acquisition marks a significant step in modernizing the country’s military capabilities, providing effective tools to address regional security challenges, including counterterrorism efforts and border surveillance.
This development also reflects ongoing geopolitical shifts in the region, where alliances are being redrawn, and old tensions are giving way to new opportunities for strategic cooperation.
The MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones are notable for their long-range capabilities, making them well-suited for surveillance missions in vast regions such as deserts.
It’s worth noting that these negotiations were initiated by Morocco during the Trump administration, with the condition that the US recognize Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara.
The agreement, valued at one billion dollars, not only includes SeaGuardian drones but also precision munitions such as Hellfire missiles, Paveway bombs, and JDAM kits, thereby enhancing Morocco’s defense capability in the region.
Stan OKAFOR
