The French “Rafale F4” fighter jet has returned to the spotlight within Moroccan military circles, given its combat capabilities that make it the most suitable option to counter advanced Russian fighters Algeria is seeking to acquire, according to a report by the French military affairs outlet Avions Légendaires.
According to the same source, it is unclear whether Morocco’s renewed interest in this French fighter reflects the “warming” diplomatic ties between Rabat and Paris, or whether it is a direct response to concerns over Algeria potentially signing deals to acquire new, modern-generation Russian fighter jets.
The report noted that the French aircraft, manufactured by Dassault Aviation, is considered the natural successor to the “Mirage F1CH/EH” fighters that were upgraded around two decades ago, and is now in strong competition for the Moroccan market with the American “F-16 Viper” produced by Lockheed Martin.
It added that Washington has spent years trying to convince the Royal Moroccan Air Force that the “F-16V” is the most suitable for its needs, but — according to the report — French diplomacy and the French Air and Space Force appear to have played a role in “convincing” Morocco about the Rafale.
The report stated that the turning point came between 23 June and 5 July 2025, during the “Marathon 25” exercises, when Moroccan pilots had the opportunity to get up close to Rafales from the French 4th Air Wing. It noted that two Moroccan generals flew aboard the French jet to assess its capabilities.
The French outlet added that this first-hand experience followed a year of intensified talks between Dassault and the Moroccan Air Force, particularly after Algeria announced its intention to purchase the Russian stealth fighter “Sukhoi Su-57E” — a move that raised doubts about the F-16V’s ability to match what is considered a fifth-generation aircraft.
The report noted that the recent joint drills between Morocco and France came just a few months after Algeria confirmed its Su-57E deal in February, further strengthening the Rafale’s position in the minds of Moroccan military decision-makers.
According to the same source, Moroccan military officials believe that the type of aircraft Algeria is preparing to acquire could outmatch the F-16 Viper, making the Rafale — with its superior capabilities — a better fit for countering Russian fighters.
In light of these developments, the report suggested that Morocco may move toward signing a Rafale deal with France, likely in the first half of 2026, with the first deliveries expected between 2030 and 2031.
