Morocco has recently decided to modernize its artillery arsenal by opting for 36 Atmos 2000 self -propelled artillery systems from the Israeli group Elbit Systems, thus abandoning French caesar self -propelled canons already in service within the Royal Armed Forces (FAR).
This decision is motivated by maintenance problems encountered with Caesar systems from their first deliveries. The Atmos 2000, mounted on trucks, offer increased mobility and faster deployment, thus meeting the operational needs of the FAR, reports the French daily “La Tribune”.
Since the standardization of diplomatic relations between Morocco and Israel in 2020, the two countries have intensified their cooperation in defense. Israeli weapons now represent around 10% of the FAR military arsenal, classified 59th worldwide according to Global Firepower.
This acquisition is part of a series of arms contracts between Morocco and Israel, including the purchase of Barak MX air and anti -missile defense systems.
Last May, Morocco was accused of using Israeli weapons to kill civilians, including children in Western Sahara, according to a survey published by the French media humanity in March 2024.
Morocco would have even used Israeli drones made in Smara, a city of more than 66,000 inhabitants under its control. In 2023, Elbit Systems announced the opening of two drone factories in Morocco.
