Morocco Shifts Artillery Procurement to Israel Following French Equipment Issues
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Salma Hossein
- . February 11, 2025
- . Update: February 11, 2025 3:19 pm
The Royal Moroccan Armed Forces selected Elbit Systems of Israel to provide them with 36 Atmos 2000 self-propelled artillery systems. The Moroccan military made this purchase based on ongoing difficulties with French Caesar howitzer deliveries because of worsening relations between the two nations.
Morocco bought 36 Caesar self-propelled cannons from KNDS of France in 2020 for €200 million. As La Tribune stated, Moroccan armed forces constantly dealt with system failures of their received Caesar platform, leaving several units unable to operate. The French defense company KNDS maintains its response time while refusing any type of commercial bonus to solve technical problems.
Morocco chose the Atmos 2000 system based on business and technical factors because it offers a 40 km plus firing range and can launch six rounds in 110 seconds. The 52 caliber 155 mm howitzer operates with modern electronics while a small team of 2 to 6 soldiers can maintain it.
Morocco obtains enhanced artillery prowess because its new systems allow quick movement during fire missions plus simultaneous blast effects. The new purchase has led to reduced chances for Arquus to win support vehicle contracts with the Moroccan Armed Forces and demonstrates the government’s move to source from non-French vendors.
