Old Marconi Transmitters force closure of Voice of America (VOA) Morrocco
Relay Station.

The Marconi transmitters would have been replaced by 500 kw transmitters
from RIZ or Grass Vally / Thales ... but the US is not able to take care of
itself.

Even the most basic funding arrangements to update these transmitters are
more or less totally beyond the current US Goverment's capabilities.


Announcement by the International Broadcasting Bureau,
November 2, 2007:

"The IBB transmitting station in Morocco will cease
operations in March 2008, and the facility will be
returned to the Government of Morocco by the end of
next year. The rising cost of operating the Morocco
station prompted this decision.
[...]
"Morocco has ten 500 KW autotuned, shortwave broadcast
transmitters manufactured by Marconi Electronics Inc.
It has space for two additional 500 KWs.

The 500 KW transmitters, which are twice as efficient
as older existing VOA transmitters, are the first VOA
transmitters designed for reduced power, reduced
carrier and single sideband operation.

This 1,147-acre facility is located about seven miles
from the old Tangier Relay Station now operated by the
Moroccan government.