To enhance its military capabilities, Morocco is preparing to receive 172 new M1A2 Abrams tanks, increasing its total fleet to 394 units. This upgrade complements other significant acquisitions, including advanced military equipment from the United States and Israel. Among these new additions is the Israeli air defense system Barak MX and 500 American armored vehicles, Bradley.
In an effort to bolster its military strength, the kingdom is set to integrate 172 new “Abrams” tanks as per a contract signed in 2018. This information was recently disclosed by the defense equipment site “Excess Defense Articles (EDA).” The tanks will undergo modernization to the “M1A2” standard, raising the total within the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces to 394 units. In 2012, Morocco also acquired 222 “M1A1 Abrams” tanks in the “Special Armor (SA)” version for over a billion dollars.
The “M1A2 Abrams” tank is among the most advanced globally. Developed by General Dynamics Land Systems and named after General Creighton Abrams, it boasts impressive technical specifications. Each tank weighs 63 tons and measures 9.77 meters in length (with the gun forward), 3.66 meters in width, and 2.44 meters in height.
Moreover, each tank is designed to accommodate a crew of four: the commander, gunner, loader, and driver. The primary armament consists of a 120 mm M256K smoothbore gun, complemented by a 12.7 mm machine gun and two 7.62 mm machine guns as secondary armaments.
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Additionally, these tanks are powered by a multifuel turbine engine producing 1,500 horsepower. This engine enables them to achieve a maximum speed of approximately 67 km/h on paved roads, with a range of about 426 km on those same roads. Furthermore, the tanks are equipped with advanced composite armor for improved protection against modern munitions and a sophisticated combat management system, allowing for firing while in motion.
It is worth noting that last year, Morocco acquired various advanced military equipment from the United States and Israel to modernize its arsenal and enhance its capabilities. Among these acquisitions, the kingdom received the first batch of the Israeli air defense system “Barak MX.” This system, regarded as one of the most sophisticated for countering aerial threats, was secured after a year and a half of negotiations with “Israel Aerospace Industries,” under a contract valued at 500 million dollars.
The “Barak MX” system is also capable of intercepting missiles, drones, and aircraft by launching anti-aircraft missiles at ranges of up to 150 kilometers and altitudes of 20-30 kilometers. A notable characteristic of the “Barak MX” missiles is their diameter, which allows for the use of a highly efficient millimeter-wave radar. This capability facilitates remote launches and ensures a high probability of destruction, even in the event of radar data loss.
Additionally, Morocco received 500 American armored vehicles of the “Bradley” type as part of its cooperation program with the United States. These vehicles, originally designed for troop transport and fire support, are known for their durability in combat conditions and their ability to effectively protect soldiers.
Consequently, the inclusion of the Bradley vehicles into the Moroccan arsenal will enhance the Kingdom’s capacity to address various challenges. These vehicles can transport approximately 10 soldiers, provide effective fire support, and serve in support roles for engineering and fire control troops. By combining high firepower with excellent maneuverability and first-shot accuracy, they will be a valuable asset to the Moroccan armed forces.
Morocco’s Military Reinforcement: Welcoming 172 New M1A2 Abrams Tanks
Overview of Morocco’s Military Enhancements
To strengthen its military capabilities, Morocco is preparing to integrate 172 new M1A2 Abrams tanks, in accordance with a contract signed in 2018. Recent revelations from the defense equipment site Excess Defense Articles (EDA) highlight this pivotal moment for the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces (RMAF). With this addition, the total Abrams tank fleet will rise to 394 units, significantly bolstering its ground forces.
A Brief History of the Abrams Tanks in Morocco
In 2012, Morocco enthusiastically welcomed 222 units of the M1A1 Abrams tanks in the Special Armor (SA) version, acquiring them for over a billion dollars. This move set the stage for modernizing the Moroccan military, and the forthcoming M1A2 tanks will further enhance its operational capabilities.
Specifications of the M1A2 Abrams Tanks
The M1A2 Abrams tank is hailed as one of the world’s most advanced tanks. Here are some key specifications:
- Weight: 63 tons
- Dimensions: 9.77 meters in length (with the gun forward), 3.66 meters in width, and 2.44 meters in height.
- Crew: 4 (commander, gunner, loader, and driver)
- Main Armament: 120 mm M256K smoothbore gun
- Secondary Armament: 12.7 mm machine gun and two 7.62 mm machine guns
- Engine: Multifuel turbine engine developing 1,500 horsepower
- Maximum Speed: Approximately 67 km/h on paved roads
- Range: About 426 km on paved roads
Protection and Tactical Advantages
The M1A2 Abrams features advanced composite armor that provides exceptional protection against a variety of modern munitions. Additionally, its advanced combat management system allows for firing while the vehicle is in motion, enhancing its tactical advantage on the battlefield.
Recent Acquisitions: Barak MX and Bradley Armored Vehicles
In its quest for modernization, Morocco has recently acquired numerous advanced military assets, including the Israeli air defense system Barak MX and 500 American Bradley armored vehicles.
Barak MX Air Defense System
The Barak MX system, obtained after a complex negotiation process with Israel Aerospace Industries, represents one of the most advanced air defense solutions globally. Key features include:
- Intercept Range: Missiles, drones, and aircraft up to 150 kilometers.
- Operational Altitude: Effective at altitudes of 20-30 kilometers.
- High-Performance Radar: Facilitates remote launches with a high probability of destruction.
Bradley Armored Vehicles
The addition of 500 Bradley armored vehicles complements Morocco’s ground forces. Notable features include:
- Capacity: Transport approximately 10 soldiers.
- Fire Support: Provides effective fire support in combat scenarios.
- Maneuverability: Known for robustness and adaptability in various combat conditions.
Implications for Morocco’s Military Strategy
The integration of the M1A2 Abrams tanks, Barak MX air defense system, and Bradley vehicles signifies a substantial enhancement of Morocco’s military capabilities. These acquisitions not only strengthen the RMAF but also align with Morocco’s broader strategic objectives within the region.
Operational Readiness and Modernization Goals
Training and Maintenance
With the arrival of new advanced military hardware, Morocco will need to invest in training programs to ensure operational readiness. Training for the personnel who will handle these tanks and systems is vital to fully utilize their capabilities.
Maintenance Infrastructure
Additionally, developing a robust maintenance infrastructure will be crucial in ensuring longevity and sustained operational capability. This includes having spare parts, skilled technicians, and facilities equipped to repair and maintain advanced military systems.
Conclusion
Morocco’s military enhancements through the acquisition of 172 new M1A2 Abrams tanks, alongside cutting-edge air defense systems like Barak MX, indicate a strategic determination to modernize and bolster national defense. These advancements are expected to contribute significantly to Morocco’s military effectiveness in the face of emerging threats.
