Tel Aviv. Ever since the Russian made Sukhoi Su-57 was first presented in the China International Air Show in Zhuhai City, there are many speculations about the launching customer of this fifth generation fighter aircraft. One name that appears again and again in all this guessing game is Algeria.
If Algeria turns out to be the customer, the advanced Russian aircraft may be tested against Israel defence systems deployed by Morocco.
Several nations have expressed interest in the Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jet, although the manufacturer has not provided any additional information regarding the customer. Algeria may be the buyer, according to certain rumours.
Since the signing of the Abraham Accord in 2020, Morocco became a very serious client of the Israeli defence industries. The reason for that change of requirements, according to Israeli sources, is the continued tensions between Morocco and Algeria. The dispute is over the status of Western Sahara, where Morocco’s sovereignty claims seem to have gained international recognition.
Morocco needs advanced weapon systems and the new relationship with Israel opened some very lucrative options for Rabat. In February, Israel and Morocco concluded a $500 million deal to provide the Kingdom with the Barak MX air and missile defence system manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
Barak-MX, a modular air defence system is designed to address missile and aircraft threats. It operates both in marine platforms and land, and belongs to the Barak missile family.
After the initial agreement was signed between Israel and Morocco, the Moroccans have submitted a long list of Israeli made military systems that they want to acquire from Israeli companies.
After purchasing 150 eVTOL drones made by Israeli company Bluebird, Morocco is evaluating more types of Israeli made unmanned air systems.
The deal included two types – the WanderB and the ThunderB. Now, the variety of UAV types has grown after Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI ) acquired 50 % of Bluebird. The first contract includes performing some of the production in Morocco.
Morocco has asked Israel to supply its armed forces with a long list of advanced defence systems. The list includes different types of UAVs , radars, communication system and early warning systems.
According to Israeli sources, Morocco is requesting more systems now and the list includes some very advanced offensive ones. The demand explains Elbit Systems’ decision to establish two sites in Morocco. Sources said that in the first phase, the systems will be assembled but with time, some production lines will be opened there.
Elbit Systems was not ready to add more information about its planned production plans in Morocco.
Earlier this year, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) announced a $1 billion contract without giving any specifics. Sources revealed that the contract is for two very advanced spy satellites.
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
