Marrakech Airshow 2026 concludes with major defense deals and Israeli debut

The eighth edition of the Marrakech Airshow 2026 concluded at the Royal Moroccan Air Force Base, featuring nearly 200 exhibitors from 27 countries. The event highlighted significant advancements in aerospace and defense, including strategic industrial agreements and high-profile aerial displays by Moroccan, Saudi, and Emirati flight teams.

A major milestone was the inaugural presence of an Israeli defense pavilion, marking the first official participation of the Israeli defense sector in a Moroccan exhibition since the signing of the Abraham Accords. Eight Israeli companies, including Elbit Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries, showcased technologies such as AI-driven robotic systems, loitering munitions, and satellite communications.

Key industrial developments included a contract from the Emirati group EDGE to supply Desert Sting 16 guided bombs and Thunder guidance kits to the Moroccan national defense administration for use on unmanned combat aerial vehicles. Other international participants included Italy’s Leonardo. Additionally, Morocco’s Office National des Aéroports (ONDA) utilized the event to present its ‘Airports of Morocco’ brand and its ‘Airports 2030’ infrastructure strategy, which includes major expansion projects for Casablanca Mohammed V Airport.