Morocco Among the World’s Largest Arms Importers (2015-2024)

A recent report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) revealed that Morocco ranked 31st globally among the largest arms importers between 2015 and 2024. Meanwhile, Algeria secured the 21st position in the same period, highlighting the ongoing regional arms race.

Morocco’s Growing Arms Imports

Over the past decade, Morocco has steadily increased its defense budget to modernize its armed forces. The report indicates that the United States, France, and Spain are Morocco’s primary arms suppliers, providing fighter jets, air defense systems, and armored vehicles.

Algeria and Regional Competition

Algeria remains the leading arms importer in North Africa, ranking 21st worldwide. Unlike Morocco, Algeria heavily relies on Russia for its military acquisitions, reflecting its strategic preference for advanced Russian military technology.

Reasons Behind Increased Military Imports

Several factors contribute to the rise in military spending in the region, including:

• Regional security challenges, such as terrorism threats and border protection.
• Military modernization efforts, aiming to align defense capabilities with the latest technologies.
• Strategic balance, with Morocco and Algeria investing in military strength to maintain regional influence.

Impact of These Trends

Military analysts suggest that enhancing defense capabilities goes beyond arms imports and includes developing local defense industries. This shift could reduce dependency on foreign suppliers in the future. However, the arms race also raises concerns about regional stability.

Morocco continues to invest in modernizing its military, relying on diverse suppliers to strengthen its defense capabilities. As regional competition persists, developing a local defense industry could become a long-term priority to ensure self-sufficiency and national security.

Source : ipst.education/news