Morocco is currently in discussions to procure the Delilah short-range cruise missile, manufactured by the Israeli company Elbit Systems, signaling an increasing demand for Israeli-made weapon systems in the country. If the deal is finalized, the Delilah missile system will be a significant addition to the Moroccan army’s arsenal.
The negotiation process is ongoing, with Israel emphasizing the need to safeguard the technology of these weapon systems, ensuring it remains confidential and is not leaked to other parties. According to Israeli sources, the Delilah missile was originally developed as an air decoy but has evolved into one of Israel’s most advanced air-launched weapon systems over the years. Foreign media reports indicate its use in various Israeli air strikes targeting locations in Lebanon and Syria. Elbit Systems, the manufacturer, has refrained from providing comments on the matter.
The Delilah missile is a cruise missile or loitering munition developed in Israel by Elbit Systems (previously Israel Military Industries, IMI). It is designed to target moving and relocatable targets with a circular error probable (CEP) of 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches). The Delilah is an air-launched standoff missile and cruise missile with a range of 250 kilometers. Unlike a typical cruise missile, which is locked onto a pre-programmed target prior to launch, the Delilah missile’s unique feature, as claimed by the manufacturer, is being able to loiter and surveil an area before a remote weapons systems officer, usually from the launching fighter aircraft, identifies the specific target for the attack. The missile can be fired from most aircraft, helicopters, or ground launchers. Its compact dimensions allow it to be carried by the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk and SH-60B helicopters.
Earlier this year, Morocco selected the Rafael Spyder air defense system for its short-range air defense needs. The Spyder system is operated by eight countries, including the United Arab Emirates, the first Arab country to do so, as well as the Czech Republic, the first NATO member to deploy the system. The system is also in possession of the armed forces of Georgia, Vietnam, Singapore, and the Philippines. The Spyder, made by Rafael, is a low-level, quick-reaction surface-to-air missile system capable of engaging aircraft, helicopters, unmanned air vehicles, drones, and precision-guided munitions. It provides air defense for fixed assets and point and area defense for mobile forces in combat areas.
