New Israeli-American Cruise Missile Unveiled in Military Test in Morocco

Morocco is gradually becoming one of the United States’ most important military testing and development hubs in Africa. During the first exercise held at the new African Multi-Domain Training and Experimentation Center, AMTEC, Covenant’s “Anthem” cruise missile—developed by a company with significant Israeli ties—was also successfully tested.

The new center is intended to become a permanent “military laboratory,” where the United States, Morocco, and allied countries, together with defense-industry companies, can test and accelerate the development of advanced combat systems. Among other things, it is expected to be used for testing long-range cruise missiles, autonomous systems, drones, sensors, and communications systems.

One of the key tests during the first exercise focused on “Anthem,” a long-range cruise missile being developed by Covenant. The missile was designed as a less expensive alternative to traditional cruise missiles, which are heavy and costly, and one that can be produced in large quantities. Its exact range remains classified and has not been released by the manufacturer, but the company says it is designed to strike very distant targets.

The evaluation in Morocco went beyond simply launching the missile. American and Moroccan teams set up a temporary operational position in the field to test the system under conditions simulating operational activity. During the test, they examined the communications systems, mobility, and other components of the system, including the missile’s wings and launch platform. At the same time, data was collected to assess its performance in real time. Covenant engineers and technicians also took part in the activity, working alongside U.S. and Moroccan military personnel.

The deepening defense cooperation between Washington and Rabat is taking place alongside a severe crisis in relations between Morocco and Spain. Tensions have intensified over the migration crisis in the Ceuta region.

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has also taken a clear position in the dispute. The White House placed responsibility for the migration crisis on the government of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, while publicly strengthening its strategic support for Morocco and deepening defense ties with the country. The establishment of AMTEC gives this partnership a permanent on-the-ground infrastructure, against the backdrop of the sharp deterioration in relations between Washington and Madrid.