Morocco Negotiates Multi-Billion Shekel Purchase of Israel's David's Sling

Morocco is currently in negotiations with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to acquire Israel's David's Sling air defense system in a deal expected to reach billions of shekels, according to the German defense website ES&T. Amid growing bilateral ties across all sectors, Rabat aims to integrate the Israeli system into its multi-layered air defense network.

Moroccan interest follows the successful deployment of two other Israeli systems: Rafael's Spyder and Israel Aerospace Industries' (IAI) Barak MX. Spyder has become one of Rafael's top-selling systems globally, offering defense against drones, aircraft, helicopters, and short-range ballistic missiles using Python and Derby interceptors. Crucially, Spyder involves no US components, meaning its export does not require Washington's approval, unlike David's Sling or Arrow 3.

Meanwhile, the Barak MX system supports various radars and launchers against multi-domain threats. It utilizes modular interceptors including Barak MRAD (up to 35 km), Barak LRAD (up to 70 km), and Barak ER (extendable to 150 km). Motors for Barak MX interceptors are manufactured by Tomer, a state-owned Israeli enterprise.

Strategic Capabilities of David's Sling

David's Sling is considered a more strategic and prestigious system, featuring a range of up to 300 km and a speed of Mach 7.5 (2.55 km per second). It intercepts cruise missiles, advanced aircraft, and drones. The system integrates an MMR radar developed by Elta, an IAI subsidiary, and the Golden Shaked battle management system by Elbit Systems' Elisra.

Driven by combat performance and global demand, air defense has become Israel's primary defense export driver, accounting for 29% of total arms sales last year following the peak in 2023.

Expanding Military Cooperation in Marrakesh

Morocco's interest in David's Sling coincides with Israel's debut participation at the Marrakesh Air Show. Eight Israeli defense firms showcased advanced technologies, including loitering munitions, AI-powered robotics, and satellite communications.

In addition to air defense, reports indicate Morocco is eyeing IAI's LORA ballistic missile system to complement its incoming American HIMARS artillery units. LORA offers precision strikes up to 400-500 km. Furthermore, Morocco already operates Elbit's PULS artillery rocket system, which was operationally demonstrated by Moroccan forces in March 2025.