The Royal Armed Forces of Morocco (FAR) are continuing to strengthen their military equipment with purchases from the Turkish market. According to Africa Intelligence, FAR has recently ordered 200 Cobra 2 armored vehicles, manufactured by the Turkish defense company Otokar. Notably, around 20 of these vehicles will be allocated to Moroccan peacekeepers participating in United Nations peacekeeping missions. Otokar announced the significant order on December 14, 2023, detailing its value at approximately $136 million. The contract encompasses not only the vehicles themselves but also spare parts, maintenance equipment, and training services. Deliveries are expected to begin by the end of 2024 and be completed in batches throughout the following year. The Cobra 2 is a versatile armored vehicle developed by Otokar, with the first unit rolling off the production line in 1997. Originally designed for the Turkish military, it offers a range of capabilities, including functioning as an armored personnel carrier, anti-tank vehicle, reconnaissance platform, ground surveillance unit, forward observation post, and even an armored ambulance. The Cobra 2 can be outfitted with various weaponry and turret options, including 12.7mm machine guns, 20mm cannons, and anti-tank missiles. Its V-shaped steel hull boasts impressive protective qualities against mines (both anti-personnel and anti-tank), improvised explosive devices, artillery shrapnel, and long-range weaponry. It's worth noting that Morocco has also previously purchased Bayraktar drones from Turkey, further solidifying their military cooperation with the nation.
