Morocco reinforces its air power with Chinese ‘Twin-tailed Scorpion’ drones

In a new step towards the modernisation of its armed forces, the Royal Moroccan Air Force has incorporated the Chinese TB-001 drone, nicknamed the ‘Twin-tailed Scorpion’, into its fleet. This development strengthens the country's military capabilities and reflects the closer defence cooperation between Morocco and China.

According to the specialised portal Army Recognition, the details of this agreement were revealed by the China News account on the social network X. Each aircraft has an approximate cost of 280,000 dollars and has been developed by the Chinese company Sichuan Tengden Sci-Tech Innovation Co Ltd. 

The TB-001 stands out for its twin-tail design and twin engines, with a wingspan of 18 metres, a length of 8.8 metres and a height of 2.7 metres. Thanks to these characteristics, the drone has a short take-off capacity and high flight efficiency, reaching a maximum operating radius of 8,500 kilometres and supporting a take-off payload of up to 1,950 kilograms. 

Classified as a multi-role aircraft, the ‘Double-Tail Scorpion’ can carry out various missions, such as reconnaissance, emergency rescue, meteorological operations, wide-area patrols and air transport. In addition, it can be equipped with light missiles to attack ground targets, such as vehicles and personnel, consolidating its position as a strategic resource for the Royal Moroccan Air Force. 

With this acquisition, Morocco takes a significant step towards the modernisation and diversification of its air fleet, expanding its defence capabilities and positioning itself as a key player in regional security. 

Last month, the Kingdom also received the first batch of Bayraktar Akinci combat drones, one of the most advanced in the military field. Morocco agreed to purchase these drones from the Turkish aviation and defence company Baykar at the end of last year.