Morocco Boosts 2026 Defense Budget to Record MAD 157 Billion
Rabat, The Gulf Observer: Morocco has once again raised its defense budget, allocating MAD 157.171 billion (approximately $15.7 billion) for the fiscal year 2026, according to the draft finance law submitted to parliament.
The funds will be directed toward the acquisition and maintenance of equipment for the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) and the continued development of the national defense industry.
Under Article 34 of the 2026 draft finance law, the Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of the National Defense Administration is authorized to commit these expenditures in advance during fiscal year 2026, with allocations to be drawn from appropriations earmarked for fiscal year 2027.
The new budget marks a steady upward trajectory in Morocco’s defense spending. The Kingdom allocated MAD 124.7 billion ($12.08 billion) in 2024 and MAD 133 billion (approximately $13 billion) in 2025. The 2026 figure represents an increase of more than MAD 24 billion ($2.62 billion) over two years.
The government plans to present the full 2026 finance bill to parliament later this evening, following its discussion at the Ministerial Council on Sunday.
The increased spending underscores Morocco’s continued commitment to modernizing its military capabilities, strengthening its defense industry, and enhancing its capacity to respond to potential regional security challenges.
Over recent years, Morocco has sought to bolster its armed forces while reducing reliance on foreign suppliers by expanding domestic defense production. This strategic focus has coincided with the Kingdom’s steady rise in the Global Firepower rankings — from 61st place in 2024 to 59th in 2025 out of 145 countries evaluated.
Expanding defense partnerships
Morocco has continued to diversify its defense partnerships through new deals with major international partners, including the United States, Türkiye, and India.
In a landmark development, Morocco and India inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Maroc (TASM) in Berrechid — India’s first overseas defense manufacturing facility and a key milestone in Morocco’s efforts to build a local defense production base.
In collaboration with Türkiye, drone manufacturer Baykar announced earlier this year the establishment of a drone production plant in Morocco, following the delivery of a batch of advanced Bayraktar Akinci drones to the Royal Armed Forces.
Meanwhile, Morocco appeared on a recent U.S. Department of Defense list of countries benefiting from a $27 million contract modification awarded to General Dynamics Land Systems Inc. for Abrams tank technical support.
The diversification of defense partnerships and establishment of local defense manufacturing facilities demonstrate Morocco’s strategic determination to strengthen its military readiness, promote self-reliance in defense production, and ensure long-term regional stability.
