An analysis of the economic and strategic stakes involved in Morocco’s acquisition of the F-35, taking into account operating and maintenance costs.

Morocco is considering acquiring F-35 fighter jets, known for their advanced capabilities but also for their high cost. While the diplomatic tensions between Rabat and Europe have been ironed out, new economic challenges are emerging. The cost of an F-35 is estimated at 160 million euros per unit, with operating costs reaching 42,000 dollars per flight hour. The question is therefore whether Morocco can afford such an acquisition without compromising its overall military budget, while ensuring the ongoing modernisation of its fleet.

A strategic interest for Morocco in the face of geopolitical challenges

In 2021, Morocco expressed its interest in acquiring the F-35 fighter, an aircraft renowned for its stealth capabilities and air combat performance. This request was made against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions with certain European countries, notably Spain and Germany. Rabat wanted to strengthen its military capabilities in the face of external pressure and changing threats in the region.

The F-35 is a fifth-generation fighter designed to carry out operations of high strategic value. With a range of 2,200 km and advanced detection capabilities, this aircraft will enable Morocco to strengthen its air defences while ensuring power projection. However, beyond the strategic interest, the cost of this acquisition raises questions about its feasibility.

The exorbitant cost of the F-35: between acquisition and maintenance

The cost of acquiring an F-35 is estimated at around €160 million per unit, which includes the purchase of the aircraft, associated services and maintenance costs. These costs vary according to the country’s trade relations with the United States, a point that could work in Morocco’s favour thanks to its strengthened partnership with NATO and its cooperation with Israel.

However, operating costs are even more worrying. The F-35 costs around $42,000 (around €39,000) per flying hour, a figure that includes maintenance, fuel and the personnel needed to ensure operations. By comparison, a Rafale costs an average of €16,500 per flight hour. This significant difference raises the question of economic viability for a country like Morocco, whose annual defence budget is in the region of €4 billion.

The complexity of the systems and the challenges of modernisation

In addition to the acquisition cost, maintaining a fleet of F-35s represents a major challenge. The aircraft’s electronic systems, such as radars, detection sensors and communications devices, require regular updating to maintain the aircraft’s effectiveness over the long term. Each technological update adds extra costs to maintenance, making these aircraft even more expensive to operate. These costs, spread over the life of the aircraft, increase a country’s overall defence budget and impact on its ability to invest in other areas.

Infrastructure is another aspect to consider. Accommodating a fleet of F-35s requires significant investment in air bases, to guarantee the maintenance and safety of the aircraft. It is estimated that this infrastructure could cost several hundred million euros, putting further pressure on Morocco’s public finances.

Flight simulators: a costly compromise

Faced with the prohibitive cost of flight training with the F-35, some countries, such as Switzerland, have opted for hours of training on simulators. This approach reduces operating costs by limiting the number of actual flying hours, while ensuring ongoing pilot training. Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer, is promoting the use of simulators to offset the high cost of flying.

However, not everyone is in favour of this solution. Pilots stress the importance of real-life experience, believing that the simulator, while useful, cannot replace the sensations and reflexes developed in flight. The argument often put forward is that owning an aircraft without using it regularly for training reduces its efficiency. One defence industry expert has likened this situation to buying a Ferrari and leaving it in a garage, a decision that makes little sense when you are trying to maximise the capabilities of such sophisticated equipment.

Economic consequences and impact on Moroccan defence policy

The acquisition of the F-35 could have significant repercussions on Morocco’s defence policy. At a time of global economic crisis, allocating a significant proportion of the defence budget to these aircraft could lead to compromises in other areas, notably the modernisation of other military sectors or the funding of critical infrastructure.

Morocco, despite having an increasing defence budget, may have to reduce its spending on other military projects to offset the cost of the F-35. This could affect its ability to modernise other equipment, such as armoured vehicles and anti-aircraft defence systems, which are needed to ensure comprehensive territorial defence.

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