(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Amid heightening tensions with Algeria and ongoing unrest in the Sahel and Sahara regions, Morocco has bolstered its military capabilities by acquiring the latest variant of the Abrams main battle tank, the M1A2 SEPv3.
This move aims to strengthen the Moroccan ground forces, building on the country’s existing use of earlier Abrams tank models.
The newly acquired M1A2 SEPv3 represents the pinnacle of Abrams tank design, featuring advanced electronics, superior armor, and enhanced firepower.
Moroccan media have reported the arrival of the M1A2 SEPv3 tanks, highlighting the movement of convoys transporting these formidable American-made main battle tanks towards the south of the country.
The significant influx of tanks into this region has captured public interest, reflecting the strategic importance of the delivery.
This acquisition is part of a larger deal with General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) for more than 100 units of the Abrams tank’s most advanced variants.
Furthermore, reports indicate Morocco’s purchase of 500 Bradley armored fighting vehicles from the United States, further expanding its military arsenal.
As of 2022, the Moroccan Armed Forces’ inventory includes 656 main battle tanks, consisting of 222 M1A1s, 220 M60 Pattons, 40 T-72s, and 54 Type-90 armored vehicles, with an additional 200 M48 tanks and 60 T-72s in reserve.
Recent media coverage also suggests Morocco’s anticipated receipt of Merkava Mk3 tanks from Israel, following the “donation” of its T-72 tanks to Ukraine.
This development is notable as Israel has historically restricted exports of its Merkava tanks. If confirmed, Morocco would become the first African nation to deploy Israeli-made tanks.
The potential delivery of Merkava tanks to both Cyprus and Morocco is expected to compensate for the T-80U/UK and T-72B tanks these countries have provided to Ukraine.
Despite official denials from Morocco regarding the transfer of Russian-made tanks to Ukraine, there are allegations of such armaments reaching Eastern European nations via third-party intermediaries.
Israel has reportedly set strict conditions on Cyprus and Morocco to prevent the re-exportation or sale of its Merkava tanks to Ukraine. — DSA