In a significant move to enhance its defense relationships in North Africa, India has formalized a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Morocco aimed at strengthening cooperation in various domains, including counter-terrorism, naval collaboration, cybersecurity, and military enhancement.
The agreement was signed in Rabat during a crucial meeting between Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and his Moroccan counterpart Abdeltif Loudiyi. This visit marks the first time an Indian defense minister has traveled to Morocco, underscoring the evolving dynamics of bilateral ties between the two nations.
During the discussions, Singh highlighted the importance of deepening collaboration in critical areas such as counter-terrorism efforts, maritime security, cyber defense, and capacity building among the armed forces. The MoU lays out a comprehensive framework for joint training initiatives, expert exchanges, defense industry partnerships, and cooperation in military medicine.
As part of this strategic engagement, Singh announced the establishment of a dedicated defense wing at the Indian Embassy in Rabat. This initiative aims to foster long-term collaboration and reinforce India’s commitment to its burgeoning partnership with Morocco.
For Morocco, the MoU aligns with its ongoing military modernization efforts and aspirations to position itself as a key regional security player while simultaneously boosting its local defense industry.
Singh’s visit was also timed with the inauguration of a manufacturing facility by India’s Tata Group in Morocco, which is set to produce amphibious armored vehicles. This facility represents India’s first overseas defense establishment and is expected to create job opportunities for over 100 Moroccan engineers and personnel who will receive training in India.
The MoU is part of India’s broader defense diplomacy strategy, which has seen New Delhi signing similar agreements with various countries across Africa, Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East over the past decade. These initiatives are consistent with India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) strategy, aimed at expanding defense exports and establishing India as a reliable security partner beyond South Asia.
Simultaneously, India is advancing its own defense capabilities, having approved defense procurements totaling 670 billion rupees (approximately $7.6 billion) in August 2025, aimed at upgrading the capabilities of its army, navy, and air force.
