US Government approves a possible sale of AGM-84L Harpoon Block II Air Launched missiles to Morocco.

On April 14, the US State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Morocco of ten (10) AGM-84L Harpoon Block II Air Launched missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $62 million.

AGM-84 Harpoon all-weather anti-ship missile on a US Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon (Picture source: US Air Force)

The Government of Morocco has requested to buy ten (10) AGM-84L Harpoon Block II Air Launched missiles. Also included are containers, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor representatives' technical assistance, engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The total estimated cost is $62 million.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major non-NATO ally that continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in North Africa.

The proposed sale of the missiles and support will increase the Moroccan Air Force's maritime partnership potential and align its capabilities with existing regional baselines. Morocco intends to use the missiles on its F-16, multi-role fighter aircraft to enhance its capabilities in effective defense of critical sea-lanes.

The proposed sale of this equipment and services will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The prime contractor will be The Boeing Company, St. Louis, Missouri. The purchaser typically requests offsets. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor(s).

Implementation of this proposed sale will require annual trips to Morocco involving U.S. Government and contractor representatives for technical reviews, support, and oversight for approximately five years.

Moroccan F-16C.  The two-tone light brown scheme with grey underside is unique to the Moroccan Air Force (Picture source: Lockheed Martin/ Randy Crites)