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The French defense industry is making a concerted effort to reestablish its presence in the Moroccan market. To this end, diplomats and industry leaders, backed by influential consultants, have been deployed to Morocco. Their mission: to present strategic solutions and promote long-term investments, as reported by Africa Intelligence.
This move is part of a larger strategy to bolster French diplomatic efforts, underscored by the recent appointment of a defense attaché in Rabat, following a bilateral strategic dialogue.
It's worth noting that a «defense committee» was established last July, initiated by the French Directorate General of Armaments (DGA). This framework aims to enhance industrial cooperation between France and Morocco, with a focus on developing Morocco's Defense Industrial and Technological Base (BITD), as explained in Rabat by Emmanuel Chiva, the French Delegate General for Armaments.
Among the French companies eyeing opportunities, Naval Group is particularly prominent. The naval constructor is keen to sell one or two submarines to the Royal Moroccan Navy. «Naval Group is engaging in vigorous lobbying in Rabat, but the German ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems is also a strong contender», notes Africa Intelligence. The Spanish company, Navantia, is reportedly in the mix as well.
France is placing its bets on the «Scorpène», a submarine renowned for its stealth and performance, leveraging its longstanding diplomatic ties and historical partnership with Morocco.
Rabat is eager to bolster the security of the Western Mediterranean and the Strait of Gibraltar, amid an increasingly strategic regional landscape.
However, the French initiative faces stiff competition, particularly in the aerospace and space sectors, especially concerning spy satellites. In recent years, American and Israeli firms have strengthened their foothold in the Moroccan market. Nevertheless, France still holds a significant advantage in the maritime military domain.
