Lockheed Martin has announced the successful first flight of the Royal Moroccan Air Force’s (RMAF) first F-16 Block 72 aircraft, marking an important milestone in Morocco’s fighter modernisation programme. The flight represents a key stage as the aircraft progresses through flight testing towards its first delivery. It also signals continued progress in the defence partnership between Morocco and Lockheed Martin, which encompasses aircraft, surveillance systems and other military capabilities. For the RMAF, the programme represents a significant investment in its future airpower, introducing an advanced version of the Fighting Falcon to support the country’s evolving operational requirements and long-term defence objectives.

The F-16 Block 72 is the newest and most advanced variant of the Fighting Falcon, combining modernised avionics, advanced sensors and improved mission systems with enhanced safety and reliability features. These developments build on the established F-16 platform while providing capabilities designed to meet contemporary air defence requirements. Morocco already operates F-16 aircraft, making the new programme a continuation of its relationship with the fighter family. The first flight is an important step in the testing process ahead of delivery, moving the aircraft closer to its future role within the Royal Moroccan Air Force and its wider force modernisation efforts.

“This first flight reflects meaningful progress on Morocco’s F-16 Block 72 program and is a critical step in strengthening Morocco’s future airpower,” said Mike Shoemaker, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group. “The F-16 remains a vital component of today’s and future air defense, and we’re proud of the role it will continue to play in supporting Morocco’s sovereignty and contributing to regional stability for decades to come.” His comments highlighted the programme’s significance within the company’s longstanding cooperation with Morocco, as well as the continuing role envisaged for the Fighting Falcon in the country’s defence capabilities.

Lockheed Martin’s partnership with Morocco spans more than 50 years, beginning with the delivery of the country’s first C-130H aircraft in 1974. Today, the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces operate a range of platforms and systems that includes F-16 fighters, C-130 transports, advanced radar systems and Black Hawk helicopters. Morocco is also set to receive HIMARS systems, adding long-range precision fires to its capabilities. This relationship extends beyond equipment deliveries to include industrial cooperation and the development of local technical expertise, with aircraft sustainment forming an important element of the partnership.

Through partnerships such as Maintenance Aero Maroc, Lockheed Martin is supporting Morocco’s ambition to become a regional centre for aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul. An upcoming MRO facility at Benslimane, covering more than 8,000 square metres, is designed to provide heavy maintenance and modernisation services for C-130 Hercules aircraft, with plans to expand support to additional platforms, including the F-16. The investment links Morocco’s aircraft modernisation ambitions with the development of domestic maintenance capabilities. Together, the fighter programme and planned sustainment infrastructure reflect a broader approach to strengthening operational capabilities, building local expertise and supporting the long-term maintenance requirements of Morocco’s military aircraft fleet.