Both chambers of the Brazilian parliament have approved the framework agreement for defense cooperation with the Kingdom of Morocco, signed during the visit of Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad, to the capital Brasilia on June 13, 2019.
This partnership aims to enhance Morocco’s relations with the Latin American country as part of Rabat’s strategy to diversify its security and military partnerships in response to global political and military developments.
Morocco places significant emphasis on localizing its military industry and reducing its reliance on arms imports, and Brazil, being classified as one of the emerging arms-manufacturing countries, holds promise in this regard. One of the prominent Brazilian companies is “Embraer Defense & Security,” known for its manufacturing capabilities and situated among the largest military manufacturers in South America. Various armed forces worldwide, including the British and Emirati armies, possess weaponry and military equipment made by this country.
As part of the ongoing partnership, Morocco is expected to locally manufacture the “Riachuelo” submarine, inspired by the French-made “Scorpène” submarine. This vessel, with a length exceeding 71 meters, can reach depths of up to 300 meters below the sea surface, cruising at a speed of 20 knots, and carries various types of warheads. It was developed through the French-Brazilian partnership and entered service with the Brazilian Navy last year.
Morocco’s Advancements in Military Technology: From “A-29 Super Tucano” to “MAN-SUP” Missiles
Another notable item on the list is the “A-29 Super Tucano” light attack aircraft, designed for assault and reconnaissance missions, featuring a turboprop engine. It entered service in 2003 and costs around $14 million USD. Several armies worldwide, including the British and Emirati armies, have incorporated this aircraft into their fleets.
Furthermore, Morocco is expected to produce the “Embraer C-390 Millennium” military cargo aircraft domestically, known for its high-speed and heavy load-carrying capabilities, with low maintenance costs. This aircraft is also involved in air rescue operations and aerial refueling of other aircraft.
According to the same source, Morocco is a potential candidate for manufacturing the Brazilian “MAN-SUP” anti-ship and radar-guided missiles, with a range of up to 100 kilometers, launchable from warships and submarines. Additionally, Morocco may produce the Brazilian “Astros” rocket launcher system, comprising six launcher vehicles, six missile carrier vehicles, and a radar-guided control vehicle.