The Block 72 is the newest and most advanced version of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, according to the company. It comes with modernized avionics, advanced sensors and improved mission systems, as well as enhanced safety and reliability features.
“This first flight reflects meaningful progress on Morocco’s F-16 Block 72 program and is a critical step in strengthening Morocco’s future airpower,” said Mike Shoemaker, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group. “The F-16 remains a vital component of today’s and future air defense, and we’re proud of the role it will continue to play in supporting Morocco’s sovereignty and contributing to regional stability for decades to come.”
The program builds on a relationship between Lockheed Martin and Morocco that goes back more than 50 years, to the first C-130H delivery in 1974. The Royal Moroccan Armed Forces today operate F-16s, C-130s, advanced radar systems and Black Hawks, and are set to receive HIMARS with long-range precision fires.
Beyond the aircraft itself, Lockheed Martin said it is committed to strengthening Moroccan industry and local technical expertise through partnerships such as Maintenance Aero Maroc. An upcoming maintenance, repair and overhaul facility at Benslimane, spanning more than 8,000 square meters, is designed to support heavy maintenance and modernization of C-130 Hercules aircraft.
