Morocco has laid the foundation for a state-of-the-art military aircraft maintenance hangar at the Ben Slimane Air Base, signalling a major step in enhancing the country’s aerospace capabilities and regional influence.
The project, led by Maintenance Aero Maroc (MAM)—a joint venture of Sabena Engineering and Maintenance Aeronautic Assets (MAA)—will focus on heavy maintenance and technical upgrades for C-130 Hercules and F-16 fighter jets.
According to project details obtained by Hespress, the facility is expected to be operational in the second half of 2026, marking a new phase in Morocco’s aircraft maintenance sector and North African aviation infrastructure.
The initiative is designed not only to strengthen operational flexibility and technological autonomy but also to create high-skilled employment opportunities.
“This project reflects a strategic ambition to develop sovereign capabilities in aircraft maintenance, enhance industrial growth, and generate highly skilled jobs,” the statement said.
It also highlights a strong partnership framework involving Sabena Engineering (part of the Oryxio Group), the Moroccan Caisse de Dépôt et de Gestion, and Lockheed Martin, integrating Moroccan, Belgian, and American expertise.
The inauguration ceremony, attended by senior Moroccan officials, representatives from Lockheed Martin, Sabena Engineering, the National Defence Directorate, and the Royal Air Force, underscored a shared vision to establish a regional centre of excellence for aircraft maintenance and technical training.
The facility spans more than 8,000 square metres and is built to meet the highest international standards. MAM will carry out heavy maintenance, technical upgrades, and modernisation of C-130 and F-16 aircraft, bolstering Morocco’s operational independence and defence readiness.
The project forms the first phase of a broader development plan, with future expansions envisaged for helicopter platforms and other aircraft types. The strategy also emphasises knowledge transfer, skills development, and strengthening Morocco’s industrial sovereignty.
Stephan Burton, CEO of Sabena Engineering, said: “This project represents a strategic partnership and will become a hub capable of servicing other countries in the Mediterranean region. It is not just infrastructure but a symbol of collective ambition and mutual trust among committed partners.”
Ray Piscelli, Lockheed Martin’s Vice President for International Business, added: “This collaboration goes beyond industrial capacity building. It creates high-skilled jobs, strengthens Morocco’s industrial growth, and supports American manufacturing, proving that genuine partnerships deliver lasting security and shared prosperity.”
MAM aims to position itself as a regional centre of excellence for military and civil aircraft maintenance, with long-term plans for expansion into new platforms and markets.
About The Author
