# Morocco receives Turkish Bayraktar Akinci Drones

- Link: https://www.military.africa/2025/02/morocco-receives-turkish-bayraktar-akinci-drones/
- Published: 2025-02-09T15:20:46+01:00
- Author: Military Africa

Morocco has taken delivery of its first batch of Bayraktar Akinci drones from Turkey,
as part of an agreement [first signed](https://www.military.africa/2024/11/morocco-acquiring-akinci-drone-from-turkey/#google_vignette)
in 2023.

The semi-official military outlet, Forum FAR Maroc, confirmed the arrival, stating
that this development strengthens the relationship between the Royal Moroccan Air
Force and Turkey’s defense industry. While the exact number of drones delivered 
has not been disclosed, this marks the beginning of efforts to bring these advanced
systems to operational status.

In November 2024, local media reported that Morocco was preparing for the arrival
of the Bayraktar Akinci drones. Developed by Turkish manufacturer Baykar, the Akinci
drone is a sophisticated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for a wide range
of missions, including precision strikes, surveillance, and command and control 
operations.

The Akinci drone boasts impressive specifications, including maximum Altitude, Capable
of reaching up to 40,000 feet (12,192 meters). Impressive endurance, can stay airborne
for up to 20 hours, reaches speeds of up to 250 knots (463 kilometers per hour or
287 miles per hour), and has a range of 5,000 kilometers (3,106 miles).

One of the standout features of the Akinci is its dual artificial intelligence-enabled
avionics systems. These systems provide advanced signal processing, sensor fusion,
and real-time situational awareness, enhancing the drone’s effectiveness in complex
operational scenarios.

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The Akinci is equipped to carry various munitions, including: Cirit Missiles, Bozok
Mini Smart Munitions, MK-83 Guided Bombs, and Gökdoğan and Bozdoğan Air-to-Air Missiles.

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**Expanding Defense Cooperation**

Morocco’s acquisition of the Akinci drones follows a [previous deal for 13 Bayraktar TB2 drones,](https://www.military.africa/2021/04/morocco-orders-13-bayraktar-tb2-uav/)
valued at $70 million. These TB2 drones have been delivered in multiple batches,
with the latest delivery occurring recently. In October 2021, the Royal Moroccan
Armed Forces received the first batch of Bayraktar TB2 drones after placing an order
in April of that year.

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These drones were likely [delivered](https://www.military.africa/2021/10/morocco-receiving-bayraktar-tb2-drones/)
via a Royal Moroccan Air Force C-130 transport aircraft, which was spotted travelling
to the Baykar Training and Test facility at Çorlu Airport in northeastern Turkey.

The [$70 million contract](https://www.military.africa/2021/10/morocco-receiving-bayraktar-tb2-drones/military.africa/2021/04/morocco-orders-13-bayraktar-tb2-uav)
included the supply of 13 Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs),
aiming to enhance Morocco’s air power in counterinsurgency operations.

These procurements are part of expanding defense cooperation between Rabat and Ankara,
which includes collaboration in electronic systems, smart solutions, and unmanned
aerial platforms. The integration of advanced UAVs like the Akinci and TB2 enhances
Morocco’s surveillance and combat capabilities.

**Baykar’s Production Facility in Morocco**

In addition to supplying drones, Turkish manufacturer Baykar has announced plans
to [establish a drone production factory](https://www.military.africa/2025/01/baykar-to-establish-drone-manufacturing-facility-in-morocco/)
in Morocco. Setting up production in Morocco offers several advantages including
Quicker Deliveries: Existing African customers can receive drone deliveries more
swiftly, reducing transition times. Attracting New Clients: The proximity of the
manufacturing facility may attract new clients, as Baykar will be geographically
closer than many competitors. Economic Benefits: The facility is expected to create
job opportunities and contribute to the local economy, strengthening Turkish-Moroccan
relations, and Deeper Ties: Establishing a manufacturing presence can foster deeper
ties between nations and positively influence public opinion, extending beyond typical
government-to-government military sales.

The arrival of the Bayraktar Akinci drones marks a significant milestone in Morocco’s
efforts to modernize its military capabilities. Through ongoing collaboration with
Turkey’s defense industry, Morocco is enhancing its technological prowess in unmanned
aerial systems. The establishment of Baykar’s production facility in Morocco further
cements the strategic partnership between the two countries, promising mutual benefits
in defense, economic growth, and regional security.

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