The Royal Armed Forces have taken delivery of their first batch of Akinci drones, produced by the Turkish manufacturer Baykar. According to the FAR Maroc Forum, these advanced drones are expected to be operational shortly. The Akinci drone represents a significant leap in military technology, particularly within Turkish defense innovations. This unmanned aerial vehicle boasts a 24-hour flight endurance and a range of 6,000 kilometers, with the capability to carry up to 1,500 kg of weaponry. This acquisition underscores the growing collaboration between the Royal Air Forces and Baykar. The Turkish company plans to establish a military-industrial unit in the Benslimane region, dedicated to assembling and manufacturing a special type of drone not yet available, as reported by the same source. Baykar's president, Selçuk Bayraktar, who is also the son-in-law of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, attended the 2024 Marrakech Air Show from October 30 to November 2. During the event, he showcased the Bayraktar TB3 drone and engaged in discussions with Morocco's Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour. Since September 2021, the FAR have maintained a fleet of Bayraktar TB2 drones. Additionally, the Turkish defense firm Aselsan has expressed interest in entering the Moroccan market, further indicating the strengthening ties between Turkish defense companies and Morocco.
