The state-owned IAI announced on Tuesday that it had entered into a $1 billion contract to supply one of its systems to an unnamed third party.
IAI, known for producing some of Israel’s most advanced drones and missile defence systems, stated in a regulatory filing in Tel Aviv that the deal will be executed over five years, according to Reuters.
The new development aims to improve Morocco’s military capabilities in air, land, and sea defence.
Under the contract, IAI will supply the Ofek 13 spy satellite, which will replace two Airbus and Thales satellites, according to Moroccan news websites Le Desk and Le 360, citing Israeli sources in Rabat.
IAI Chairman Amir Peretz is said to have played a significant role in securing this deal, as well as a previous $500 million agreement for the Barak 8 air defence system, due to his connections in Morocco. Peretz is reportedly visiting Morocco to finalize this agreement.
Neither the head of the Israeli mission in Rabat nor Morocco’s foreign ministry have responded to requests for comment.
Israel and Morocco signed a defence pact in 2021, which covers intelligence sharing and cooperation in military industries and procurement.
