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Morocco Selects Türkiye’s Bayraktar Akinci Drone to Modernize Its Fleet.
As part of its effort to modernize military capabilities, Morocco is set to integrate Turkish Bayraktar Akinci combat drones into its arsenal in February 2025, as reported by Le Desk on November 11, 2024. Produced by the Turkish company Baykar, these high-tech drones will join the Moroccan fleet, which currently includes 19 Bayraktar TB2 drones acquired in 2021. With this new acquisition, Morocco is making a significant leap forward in technological and operational capacities, strengthening its Royal Moroccan Air Force (FRA) within the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) to respond effectively to regional security challenges.
The Akinci is outfitted for complex missions, with a range of armament options, including air-to-ground ballistic TRG-230 Kaplan missiles, SOM cruise missiles, and Tolun bombs (Picture source: Bayraktar)
The Akinci distinguishes itself from its predecessor, the TB2, with advanced features and increased payload capacity, allowing it to carry a variety of munitions, including precision-guided missiles. With a wingspan of 20 meters and a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 kg, this drone is equipped with cutting-edge technologies such as an AESA radar and satellite communication systems, providing a flight endurance of 25 hours and a range of up to 7,500 km. These characteristics make it an asset for long-range operations in challenging areas, offering Morocco broad coverage and targeted strike capabilities.
The Akinci is outfitted for complex missions, with a range of armament options, including air-to-ground ballistic TRG-230 Kaplan missiles, SOM cruise missiles, and Tolun bombs. It is also the first drone capable of launching an air-launched cruise missile (ALCM), a technological advance that significantly enhances Morocco’s defense capabilities. Additional available munitions include the laser-guided Cirit missile, the long-range anti-tank missile L-UMTAS, Bozok munitions, and various air-to-air missiles, developed in collaboration with Türkiye’s Scientific and Technological Research Council (Tübitak Sage).
This acquisition reflects Morocco's commitment to maintaining technological superiority in a constantly evolving security landscape. With the Akinci, the FRA can now gather intelligence more effectively and conduct preventive actions against potential threats. However, this military enhancement requires a proactive diplomatic approach, positioning the Akinci as a tool for national protection rather than military escalation to prevent any heightened regional tensions, especially with Algeria.
The Bayraktar Akinci also plays a key role in counterterrorism and addressing asymmetrical threats. Equipped with advanced detection and precision capabilities, this drone enables Morocco to secure sensitive areas, particularly borders, while minimizing risks to personnel. Its ability to conduct reconnaissance and precision strikes enhances the efficiency of FRA interventions, thereby bolstering national security.
By integrating the Akinci into its fleet, Morocco expands its ability to monitor large areas while reducing risks to military personnel. Its versatility and power make it a central element in Morocco’s national defense framework, providing targeted and adaptive responses to potential threats.
In a region where power dynamics are continually shifting, Morocco's acquisition of the Akinci could alter strategic balances in North Africa. As a High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) combat drone, the Akinci significantly extends Morocco's strike range and defensive capabilities, strengthening its position in the region.