Morocco is in talks with Russia on the acquisition of Amur-1650 submarines and Su-34 strike aircraft, according to Russian sources.
Morocco may receive the Su-32 (the export version of the Su-34 strike aircraft in service with the Russian Air Force) and Amur-1650 diesel-electric submarines, according to Russian daily Izvestia.
Morocco has for several years expressed some interest in the Amur-1650 submarines, with the North African country and Russia currently in discussions regarding the feasibility of an acquisition project.
Designed by the Rubin Naval Design Bureau in St Petersburg, the Amur-1650 can carry 18 missiles, torpedoes or mines (including anti-ship and Club/Kaliber cruise missiles) and can dive to 300 metres. It is an export model of the Lada class diesel-electric submarine, a modernised version of the Kilo class, featuring better acoustic stealth and new combat systems.
Provision has been made for the submarine to be fitted with an air-independent propulsion system, which would allow it to remain submerged for more than 25 days.
Morocco’s interest in the Su-34 comes as its neighbour Algeria is negotiating for the purchase of a dozen Su-34s, with a possible contract by year-end. Russia’s Irkut will meanwhile deliver 14 Su-30MKA fighter jets to Algeria over the coming year, augmenting its existing fleet of 44 Su-30MKAs.
Morocco also needs to keep up with Algeria’s navy – two Project-636E/Kilo submarines will be delivered to the Algerian Navy in 2018 from Russia.
