chronicle.gi
GIBRALTAR
Morocco is close to completing a new naval base on the Strait of Gibraltar.
The base has been under construction for some years and is situated close to Ksar Sghir, at a midway point in the Strait of Gibraltar.
The base will strengthen Morocco’s naval presence in the strategic Strait, which is a chokepoint for shipping and a growing centre of maritime trade.
The Royal Moroccan Navy is in the process of acquiring new ships in a move that will more than double the number of frigates it operates by 2013.
Last week took delivery of the second of three Sigma class frigates from a Dutch shipyard, the Sultan Moulay Ismail.
The ship is still on sea trials and is due to undergo her maiden voyage to Morocco in April.
The third vessel in the series will be delivered in May, while the first ship – Tarek ben Zayid – is already operational.
The ships are equipped with a combat system designed for antisubmarine operations, surface warfare, air defence and electronic warfare.
Morocco also has on order a French-built multipurpose frigate and four patrol boats.
