Anthem missile tested in Morocco: cheaper alternative to Tomahawk enters service in 2027

The US-Israeli startup Covenant Industries has successfully tested its new long-range cruise missile, Anthem, at a military range near the Moroccan city of Tan-Tan. The trials took place on August 6, using the infrastructure of the African Multidisciplinary Training and Experimentation Center (AMTEC). Personnel from both the US Army and the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces participated in the tests.

The Anthem is being developed as a more affordable alternative to the American Tomahawk cruise missile. Commercial deployment is expected to begin in early 2027. According to expert analysis, the missile features long wings, an external jet engine, and an advanced optical guidance system. Unlike ballistic missiles, the Anthem flies at low altitude along a nearly straight trajectory, making it harder to detect and intercept.

The launch comes amid reports that the US has nearly depleted its inventory of long-range missiles due to supplies to Iran. Covenant Industries positions the Anthem as a cost-effective solution that could fill the gap in allied arsenals without the high price tag of the Tomahawk. The successful test in Morocco, which involved joint US-Moroccan military cooperation, marks a significant step toward bringing the missile to market. The company aims to deliver the first operational units by 2027, offering a modern, precision-guided weapon system at a fraction of the cost of existing alternatives.