Casablanca – Turkish defense manufacturer Baykar is expanding its global operations by establishing a drone production facility in Morocco. The new entity, named Atlas Defense, represents a significant step in the growing defense cooperation between Turkey and Morocco and highlights Morocco’s ambition to develop its own military and aerospace industry.
A strategic move for Baykar
Baykar, known for producing the Bayraktar TB2 and Akıncı drones, has chosen Morocco as its latest manufacturing hub after successfully expanding into Ukraine, Azerbaijan, and Mongolia. The decision aligns with Baykar’s broader strategy to strengthen its foothold in the African and Middle Eastern defense markets.
The official incorporation of Atlas Defense was announced in the Moroccan Official Bulletin No. 5857, dated January 29, 2025. The limited liability company (SARL), registered in Rabat, has a capital of $257,000 and is owned by Selçuk Bayraktar and Lütfü Haluk Bayraktar, key figures within Baykar. The new facility will focus on the design, production, maintenance, and sale of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), along with the development of related electronic and mechanical defense technologies.
Morocco’s growing drone capabilities
Morocco has been actively modernizing its military capabilities, particularly in unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The Royal Moroccan Armed Forces (FAR) first acquired Bayraktar TB2 drones in 2021, with additional deliveries confirmed in August 2024. The TB2 drones have been deployed in various surveillance and operational missions, particularly in the Sahara region.
The establishment of Atlas Defense is expected to enhance Morocco’s technological autonomy by enabling local production and reducing dependence on foreign imports. The facility may also play a role in the maintenance and future development of more advanced drone models, including the Bayraktar Akıncı and potentially the Kızılelma stealth UCAV.
Economic and strategic benefits
Beyond military considerations, Baykar’s investment is expected to generate economic benefits for Morocco by:
- Creating local jobs in the defense and aerospace sectors
- Facilitating technology transfer and skill development
- Attracting further foreign investments in military and aviation industries
By positioning itself as a regional defense hub, Morocco aims to strengthen its role in Africa’s growing defense sector. The country has also collaborated with Israel’s BlueBird Aero Systems to establish another drone manufacturing facility, further underlining its commitment to developing a local defense industry.
Strengthening Turkish-Moroccan relations
This new industrial partnership builds upon the strong diplomatic and economic ties between Morocco and Turkey. Over the years, Morocco has emerged as one of Baykar’s key customers, leveraging Turkish drone technology to enhance its defense strategy.
The installation of Atlas Defense in Morocco underscores the increasing cooperation between the two nations and aligns with Morocco’s long-term vision of military modernization and industrial independence.
Baykar’s decision to set up a drone manufacturing facility in Morocco marks a strategic expansion for the Turkish company and a significant step for Morocco’s defense industry. With increased local production, military technology transfer, and economic benefits, this investment is set to strengthen Morocco’s role as a key player in Africa’s defense sector while further cementing its strategic partnership with Turkey.