Israel to Showcase Advanced Defense Tech at Morocco Airshow

Seven Israeli defense companies will participate in the Marrakech Airshow 2026, held from October 7-10 in Morocco, marking the first official Israeli defense exposition at the event. The participating firms include major players like Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Elbit Systems, and Rafael, alongside Xtend, Shilat, UVision, and Orbit Technologies. This presence underscores Morocco's growing importance as a customer for Israeli military technology and provides Israeli companies a platform to engage with Moroccan military structures and explore other African markets.

IAI plans to exhibit a broad range of products, including air defense systems, the OPAL combat system, the LORA precision strike missile, the Heron MK II drone, and communication satellites. The LORA missile, with a reported range of 400-500 kilometers and high accuracy, is expected to draw significant attention, with IAI aiming to discuss industrial cooperation and technology localization. Elbit Systems will showcase its PULS missile system and guided munitions, while Rafael will present its air defense and missile systems. Smaller tech firms like Xtend (autonomous systems) and UVision (loitering munitions) will also be present.

The choice of Morocco is strategic, following the re-establishment of diplomatic relations in December 2020 and Israel's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in July 2023. Military cooperation has intensified, with Israel accounting for 11% of Morocco's major arms imports between 2020-2024, notably in missile systems. Morocco has already deployed Israeli systems like the Barak MX air defense and the Elbit PULS rocket artillery system.

Morocco is viewed by Israel's defense industry as a gateway to broader African markets, especially as Israeli defense exports reached a record $19.2 billion in 2025. While Africa currently represents only about 2% of this export market, its growth is a key focus. The Marrakech Airshow is seen as a significant platform for networking with military delegations and potential partners from across the continent.

This participation builds on existing collaborations, including reports of an IAI-affiliated facility in Morocco producing loitering munitions. Morocco's defense budget also reached a record $15.7 billion for 2026, indicating a growing market for Israeli defense firms. However, the article cautions that participation does not guarantee immediate deals, as contract negotiations can be lengthy. Meanwhile, the presence of Israeli companies has drawn criticism from the Moroccan BDS movement due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, though official participation remains unaffected.