Morocco has officially acquired AH-64E Apache helicopters, marking a significant enhancement for its Royal Moroccan Air Force. The acquisition strengthens U.S.-Morocco ties and supports defense and regional security. Both nations emphasize the historical partnership, and training programs are underway to maximize operational efficiency of these new assets.
On March 5, 2025, Morocco celebrated the acquisition of AH-64E Apache helicopters at a ceremony held at Sale Air Base, reflecting a pivotal advancement for the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) and affirming United States foreign and national security interests. This purchase symbolizes Morocco’s commitment to strengthening both its national security frameworks and its regional defense capabilities.
U.S. Africa Command Commander Gen. Michael Langley commented on the significance of this acquisition, stating, “By purchasing these Apache helicopters, Morocco has made a significant step in investing in their security and in regional security. This investment now puts them in a new level of warfighting capability.” The helicopters, part of a U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency initiative launched in 2020, arrived in Morocco last month.
Reflecting on the historical ties between the two nations, U.S. Charge d’Affaires Aimee Cutrona noted, “The United States and Morocco have a long history of partnership reaching back nearly 250 years when Morocco was the first to recognize U.S. independence.” She emphasized the ongoing evolution of U.S.-Morocco security cooperation, which benefits both parties’ interests.
The AH-64E Apache, enhanced from earlier models, features advanced digital connectivity, strong engines, unmanned aerial vehicle control capability, full Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) capability, and improved landing gear. It is capable of reaching speeds of 150 knots (278 km/hr) and has a range exceeding 450 km. U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Anderson stated, “The Apache helicopter, especially this model, brings advanced weaponry in reconnaissance and attack, enabling the RMAF to better secure their borders to deter and defeat terrorism in the region.”
The Utah Army National Guard shares a significant partnership with Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces, facilitated by the Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program. This collaboration fosters extensive training and relationship-building, strengthening ties between the two military forces. Maj. Jared Sorensen expressed optimism for future joint training opportunities, stating, “Being able to fly and train together here will sharpen our skills and make us a more lethal force.”
So far, 24 RMAF pilots have been trained in the United States, including five instructor pilots, with expectations that a complete squadron will become operational in approximately six months. Gen. Langley remarked, “These aircraft give the Royal Moroccan Air Force a lethal tool that will enable them to further our mutual security goals in the region.” He underscored Morocco’s value as a strategic partner and ally.
U.S. Africa Command plays a vital role in overseeing military operations and promoting regional security across the African continent, ultimately advancing U.S. interests while enhancing stability and prosperity.
The purchase of AH-64E Apache helicopters by Morocco signifies a major enhancement of the Royal Moroccan Air Force’s capabilities, reflecting the strategic partnership with the United States. This investment positions Morocco to better secure its borders and combat regional threats, reinforcing its importance as a non-NATO ally. Training initiatives and collaborative efforts promise to deepen military ties and operational readiness within both forces.
Original Source: www.africom.mil
