Seven agreements are paving the way for new defence industry projects in Morocco, as the country moves to develop its domestic manufacturing capabilities.
The Defence Industrial Zones Management Company (SGZID) announced the agreements on November 2, 2026, during the DEFSEC Morocco Forum in Rabat. The agreements were signed during the Marrakech Air Show 2026.
The projects will be hosted in two dedicated industrial zones in Nouaceur and Sidi Yahya. Together, the sites cover 675 hectares and are currently being developed.
Two industrial zones with different roles
The first zone is located in Nouaceur, near Casablanca. It covers 75 hectares and will host technology-focused defence activities that do not involve active materials.
The second site is in Sidi Yahya, near Kenitra. It covers 600 hectares and is intended for heavier industrial activities. Some operations involving active materials will require the relevant permits and security approvals.
The two zones are managed by SGZID, a company created through a partnership between the Military Housing and Equipment Agency (ALEM) and MEDZ, a subsidiary of the CDG Group.
Seven companies involved
The seven agreements involve several Moroccan and international companies. These include France’s Arquus, Canada’s and the UAE’s INKAS, India’s MKU, as well as Marcotec, ABA Technology and Harmattan AI. The list also includes a partnership between IGG and Bal Teq Defense Industries.
The companies operate in different areas of the defence sector, including armoured vehicles, protective equipment, electronics and defence technologies.
The initiative aims to attract investment, support technology transfers and strengthen local industrial expertise. It also seeks to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers by developing domestic production and maintenance capabilities.
However, the agreements represent an initial step towards establishing future industrial facilities. The projects still need to complete the required technical studies, permits and other procedures before construction and production can begin.
No comprehensive investment figures, job estimates or production timetable have yet been announced.
