Israel to Provide $1.2B Air Defense Systems to Unnamed Partner, Sparking Rumors on Morocco's Military Arms Race Against Countries in the Region

The Israeli Defense Ministry has secured a $1.2 billion deal to provide air defense systems to an undisclosed country as announced by IAI, the primary contractor for the transaction, on Thursday. Despite inquiries from Defense News, both the ministry and Israel Aerospace Industries declined to reveal the specific system and the identity of the customer involved in the agreement. However, the company emphasized that it is an "air defense system with advanced technological capabilities, which has been operationally proven."

Speculation in Israeli media points to the Barak air defense systems as a likely candidate. The Barak MR variant boasts a range of 35 kilometers (22 miles), while the Barak ER can reach up to 150 kilometers (93 miles). Designed to intercept aircraft, medium-range ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles, Barak missiles have already found customers in Morocco, Colombia, and India, with the latter participating in the development phase of the Barak 8 variant.

According to Pentagon documents leaked earlier this year, Morocco has reportedly acquired a shipment of the Israeli Barak MX defense system. The delivery process commenced in mid-2023, as reported by FAR Maroc, a forum dedicated to covering the activities of the Moroccan army. If the Barak ER deal is confirmed, Morocco stands to gain the capability to intercept missiles, aircraft, and UAVs within a range of 35 kilometers. Additionally, with the potential Barak ER deal, this interception range could extend up to 150 kilometers.

Morocco has previously sought and received Israeli assistance in various defense domains. In 2021, the country procured Israel's Skylock Dome anti-drone system, specifically designed to identify and counter unmanned aerial threats. Furthermore, Morocco has added to its arsenal by acquiring IAI Bluebird and Heron drones.

Israel Aerospace Industries also offers a range of other air and missile defense systems, including Arrow 2, Arrow 3, Sky Capture, and Eagle Eye III VSHORAD. This recent contract marks one of the largest deals in IAI's history and the third-largest for an Israeli air defense system. It follows the $3.5 billion sale of the Arrow 3 to Germany in August and the $1.8 billion Barak 8 sale to India.