Morocco’s drone production ambitions have taken a major step forward. Israeli defense firm BlueBird Aero Systems recently announced it hosted a Moroccan technical delegation at its facilities for an intensive training program—a key phase in preparing the launch of a domestic manufacturing line for Spy X loitering munitions in Benslimane.
In a LinkedIn post, BlueBird confirmed the visit, explaining that the Moroccan technicians were given hands-on exposure to its production methods as part of a broader technology transfer initiative. The program combined theoretical instruction with practical training, laying the groundwork for the operational debut of Morocco’s first Spy X assembly line.
This development signals a deeper strategic partnership—one that goes far beyond a simple procurement deal. Instead, it aims to cultivate genuine industrial expertise on Moroccan soil. According to insiders, other drone models may follow, expanding the range to meet the needs of the Royal Armed Forces and potentially supplying regional allies.
Meanwhile, a parallel project with Turkey’s Baykar is also gathering momentum. Following the financial green light, construction is now underway on a second drone factory, also in Benslimane. But this facility won’t just produce Baykar’s well-known TB2 or Akıncı drones. It’s been designed to manufacture a high-tech system tailored specifically for Morocco, intended to integrate seamlessly with the country’s existing defense platforms. The complexity of the system has required extensive training for Moroccan personnel at Baykar’s own production sites over recent months.
Benslimane was a deliberate choice. Its proximity to the Royal Air Force’s logistical support base offers logistical advantages and fosters tight coordination between industry and the military. It also reinforces the government’s broader strategy to turn the region into a leading hub for military aerospace innovation.
Together, these initiatives represent a turning point for Morocco’s defense industry. The country is clearly positioning itself to move beyond being a buyer of advanced technology to becoming a regional manufacturer with growing local expertise and production capacity. With these projects, Morocco is laying the foundation for a robust defense sector that could eventually play a central role in the region’s military-industrial landscape.
