Morocco Secures Role in Global F-16 Fighter Production
-
A Khan
- . May 5, 2025
- . Update: May 5, 2025 8:58 pm
The international permission grants Morocco membership in the F-16 fighter jet production line through facility development near Casablanca. On April 29, the US State Department permitted Morocco to acquire defensive technologies which allowed local production of F-16V “Viper” components.
The Midparc industrial zone in Nouaceur has established a facility which will produce F-16 fighter jet structural parts that symbolize Morocco’s growing aerospace manufacturing strength. The technology transfer program started under the Arms Export Control Act received funding which exceeded $50 million.
The manufacturing of fighter aircraft components for an internationally renowned multi-role plane will occur at high-tech production lines under the guidance of skilled Moroccan technicians and engineers.
These developments help advance the expanding diplomatic ties between Morocco and the United States. Lockheed Martin’s Vice President General Joseph Rank led executives from the company who traveled to Casablanca recently for official meetings together with reviews of prospective industrial cooperation sites.
Morocco has purchased 24 F-16 Viper fighter aircraft which will reach the country before 2026 alongside plans to modernize its current F-16 planes to the advanced Viper specification which enhances their operational capabilities. Including:
- AN/APG-83 AESA radar systems resistant to electronic jamming
- Advanced Viper Shield electronic warfare systems
- Sophisticated weaponry integration capabilities
