(Ecofin Agency) - Negotiations between the Moroccan army and Russia are well advanced for purchase, by the Kingdom, of Russian “Amur-1650” diesel-electric powered submarine and Sukhoi SU-34 tactical bombers, reports Russian media Tass, cited by Defense World.

“Ostensibly, Rabat needs advanced weaponry to fight terrorists, but experts presume a confrontation with its neighbor Algeria is a more likely reason,” Defense World said.

According to an article published last month by daily Al Massae and cited by 360.ma, Morocco should receive the Amur 1650 in 2020. The fourth-generation submarine will “significantly boost Morocco’s capabilities as it will carry Club cruise missiles”.

According to Al Massae, the Sukhoi-34 should help the Kindgom’s aerian forces strenghten air defense capabilities. The media highlighted that these bombers have taken part in Russia’s intervention in Syria.

Discussions between Rabat and Morocco are part of Russia’s new strategy to sell heavy weaponry. The nation in fact considers Morocco as a key market in this strategy.

Alain Okpeitcha