Morocco shifts artillery allegiance: Opts for Israeli Atmos 2000
According to the portal La Tribune, Morocco has decided to purchase 36 Atmos 2000 self-propelled artillery guns instead of acquiring more Caesar howitzers from France. This decision was reportedly influenced by dissatisfaction with the problematic French systems, which are viewed more favourably by the Ukrainians.
Morocco received its first Caesar howitzers in 2022 and soon began to express dissatisfaction, noting that they did not meet performance expectations. La Tribune reports that Moroccans complained about frequent technical issues with the artillery systems obtained from France, sometimes rendering the equipment unfit for service. Although KNDS France was supposed to address the concerns from the African country, not everything was quickly resolved. As a result, some of the Caesars procured by Morocco are reportedly still inoperative.
Morocco no longer wants French artillery
Despite this, a contract for more Caesar howitzers for Morocco seemed likely. According to La Tribune, financial issues might have ultimately led to selecting a competitor's solution. KNDS France did not offer a "commercial gesture," which was cleverly seized upon by Atmos 2000's manufacturer, Elbit Systems from Israel.
With the purchase of the Atmos 2000, the equipment of the Moroccan army, which already uses artillery from the United States and France (including both Caesar and Mk F3), will become even more diverse. The new weapon will necessitate additional training for artillery operators.
Caesar systems use a 155 mm calibre gun with a barrel length of 52 calibres, providing a high range. The firing range varies with the type of ammunition, ranging from about 40 kilometres to as much as 55 kilometres, though it can be increased to up to 80 kilometres when using new sub-calibre Vulcano GLR shells.
In Ukraine, Caesar howitzers perform very well
French artillery is performing well in Ukraine, with local soldiers praising its range, accuracy, and suitable mobility. The French offer two variants – a base model on a Renault 6x6 chassis and a larger one using a Tatra 8x8 chassis, which includes an armoured cabin. Morocco chose the former.
Representatives of Elbit Systems assure that the Atmos 2000 surpasses the French howitzers (especially in the base variant) in several areas, such as mobility, automation, and striking power. Israelis use a Tatra chassis and a 155 mm gun in this case, which provides a range of about 40 kilometres.
