Morocco is working to acquire FIM-92K Stinger Block I missiles from the United States in a deal that could be worth $825 million. Morocco asked for up to 600 of the missiles, as well as contractor engineering, logistics and technical support services.
U.S. officials said the missiles will help modernize Morocco’s armed forces and expand its army short-range air defense options. “This will contribute to the Moroccan Army’s goals of updating capability and further enhancing interoperability with the U.S. and other allies,” U.S. officials said.
The FIM-92K Stinger Block I is an advanced variant of the Stinger family of surface-to-air missiles, primarily designed for short-range air defense. Unlike earlier Stinger models, which could be operated by a single Soldier, the FIM-92K typically is integrated into self-propelled ground-based air defense systems.
The missile is designed for all-aspect targeting, allowing it to engage threats from any direction, increasing its lethality against fast-moving aerial targets. A defining feature of the FIM-92K is its datalink capability, which enables it to lock on targets after launch. This allows the missile to be fired before acquiring a target, extending its effective engagement envelope, especially against low-signature or evasive targets such as small drones.
The FIM-92K uses an ignition device that significantly improves its effectiveness against small, agile or unmanned aerial targets by detonating the warhead when near the target, rather than requiring a direct hit.