Mouad M’Ghari, co-founder and CEO of Harmattan AI, is leading the company’s plans to expand its defence technology activities in Morocco. Moroccan-born entrepreneur Mouad M’Ghari is expanding Harmattan AI’s presence in Morocco. The company has announced agreements to develop local defence technology and manufacturing.
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The 2026 Marrakech Air Show marked a key step in these plans. On October 7, M’Ghari attended the event as Harmattan AI, a French defence technology company, announced two major initiatives: an autonomous strike system and a planned industrial and technology centre in Morocco.
These projects support Morocco’s efforts to strengthen its aerospace and defence industries. They also aim to build local skills in artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems.
From Rabat to the Global Technology Sector
M’Ghari was born in Rabat in 2000 and grew up in the Paris region. He followed an academic path focused on mathematics and technology.
According to Challenges, he attended preparatory classes at Lycée Louis-le-Grand before studying at École Polytechnique and École normale supérieure. He later earned a master’s degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he focused on machine learning.
Before launching his own company, M’Ghari worked in quantitative research at G-Research and in consulting at Attali Associates.
In April 2024, he co-founded Harmattan AI with five partners. The company develops AI systems for defence, including surveillance drones, reconnaissance systems and counter-drone technology.
The company grew quickly after its launch. In January 2026, it raised $200 million in a funding round linked to a strategic partnership with the French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation. Challenges reported that the investment valued Harmattan AI at around $1.4 billion.
Harmattan AI Announces Agreements at Marrakech Air Show
On October 7, Harmattan AI unveiled IRIFI, a proposed long-range autonomous strike system. The company also signed a letter of intent with Morocco’s National Defence Administration covering the system’s acquisition, development and production in Morocco.
The ceremony brought together senior Moroccan defence officials, including Abdeltif Loudiyi, Minister Delegate in charge of the National Defence Administration, and Lieutenant General Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces and Commander of the Southern Zone.
M’Ghari represented Harmattan AI alongside Amir Benmahjoub, the company’s managing director in Morocco.
According to the company and reporting by Le360, IRIFI is designed to cover distances of up to 2,000 kilometres. Its proposed design combines autonomous navigation with human approval of mission parameters.
A separate investment agreement sets out plans for an industrial and technology platform in Morocco. The facility would focus on developing and manufacturing autonomous defence systems.
Yabiladi reported that the site could eventually produce up to 55,000 systems a year. However, this figure represents projected capacity, not confirmed production.
Partnership Aims to Build Local Expertise
The new agreements follow a strategic partnership announced in June between Harmattan AI and Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces.
The partnership aims to establish local manufacturing capabilities. It also includes plans for a research and development centre focused on AI for defence, as well as links with Moroccan universities and research institutions.
These projects could help Morocco develop more of its own defence technology. They may also create opportunities for engineers, technical specialists and local suppliers.
Meanwhile, AI and autonomous systems are playing a growing role in defence. Harmattan AI’s partnership with Dassault Aviation and its work with Moroccan defence institutions reflect this trend.
However, important details remain unclear. Public information has not yet confirmed the final production schedule, delivery dates or full financial terms of the IRIFI programme.
What the Projects Could Mean for Morocco
M’Ghari’s career links Moroccan roots with international scientific training and Europe’s fast-growing defence technology sector. His role at the Marrakech Air Show highlights Harmattan AI’s plans to build a stronger presence in Morocco.
The announced projects could support the Kingdom’s efforts to expand its expertise in AI, autonomous systems and advanced manufacturing.
Their long-term impact will depend on implementation. Future progress will show whether the agreements lead to local production, research partnerships and lasting industrial growth.
