The U.S. Department of State announced on Tuesday, April 15, its approval of a potential military sale to Morocco. The deal involves the acquisition of 600 FIM-92K Stinger Block I missiles and related equipment for the Royal Armed Forces (FAR), with an estimated value of $825 million (approximately 7.7 billion dirhams). On the same day, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency formally notified Congress of the proposed sale. Morocco has also requested engineering, logistics, and technical support services from the U.S. government and its contractors, as well as other logistical and program-related assistance. «This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major non-NATO ally», the State Department stated. Morocco has held this status since 2004. According to the Department, «the proposed sale will improve Morocco's capability to meet current and future threats. Morocco intends to use these defense articles and services to modernize its armed forces and expand its existing army short range air defense options. The country is expected to integrate this equipment without difficulty. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region». It is also noted that «At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale». Congress must now review the order before it can be finalized. Notably, President Donald Trump's Republican Party holds the majority in both chambers of Congress. This contract represents the first deal concluded between Morocco and the new Trump administration. It comes just a week after Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita's visit to Washington.
