Morocco has ordered two Dutch-built unmanned surface vessels in a €13 million ($14.7 million) deal to strengthen the Royal Moroccan Navy's underwater threat detection capabilities.

The Netherlands approved the export licence for the systems after assessing the transaction under European Union arms export criteria, including their intended use and potential impact on regional stability, the Dutch government confirmed.

The two remotely operated vessels are configured for anti-submarine warfare and mine-countermeasure operations. The package includes sensors, control systems, spare parts, training, technical services, a mission control station, operational documentation and support equipment.

According to the Dutch government, the vessels can operate for several days with a high degree of autonomy, allowing Morocco to conduct surveillance, reconnaissance and specialised maritime missions without keeping personnel onboard.

The systems will protect harbour entrances, coastal approaches and important shipping routes from underwater threats, including naval mines.

Morocco already possesses some anti-submarine warfare capabilities, including surface vessels equipped with sonar and a limited number of anti-submarine helicopters. However, the country has fewer specialised capabilities for mine-countermeasure operations.

The unmanned vessels will allow the navy to conduct such missions while reducing the risk to personnel operating in potentially dangerous waters.

The Netherlands described Morocco as a "stable and strategic partner in an unstable region," citing its location along the European Union's southern border and its role in regional security cooperation. The Dutch assessment also addressed Morocco's role in managing migration routes, though it noted the two vessels cannot be used for those tasks without extensive modifications.

The deal comes as Morocco continues to strengthen its maritime security capabilities, with the new unmanned systems offering a way to expand surveillance and underwater defence while limiting risks to naval personnel.