Morocco’s Submarine Enrages Algeria and Spain
Sunday 4 November 2012 - 23:49
morocco world news
By Omar Bihmidine
Morocco World News
Sidi Ifni, Morocco, November 5, 2012
Although it is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, the kingdom has, until now, no submarine.
In its quest to upgrade its equipment and catch up on its regional competitors, Morocco has recently negotiated with Russia and Germany for obtaining new submarines. As reported by the Moroccan daily
Al Massae, this news has provoked reactions from neighboring Algeria and Spain.
In this regard,
Spanish Intelligence has disclosed the news that Morocco bought a German submarine, brand 209/1100 which bears a negative connotation to the Spanish military and security forces. According to the same source, the news has elicited Algeria to obtain two Russian submarines.
According to Abderhman El Mkaoui, a military expert, “Morocco’s decision to acquire the submarines will culminate in boosting its geo-political standing at the North-African level.”
European sources cited by the daily
Al Massae have revealed that Morocco is determined to equip itself with sophisticated arming, and will soon be listed as the fourth African country owning this brand of German submarine. It should be noted that the Moroccan Navy has become a growing and important partner with the U.S. Navy in Europe and Africa.