Morocco has acquired AH-64E Apache helicopters, enhancing the capabilities of its Royal Moroccan Air Force while strengthening its security partnership with the United States. This development includes training for pilots and reflects a historical alliance between the two nations, aimed at promoting regional security and stability.
On March 5, 2025, Morocco officially acquired AH-64E Apache helicopters during a ceremony held at Sale Air Base, near Rabat. This procurement signifies a major enhancement to the capabilities of the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) and aligns with the United States’ foreign policy objectives and national security initiatives.
General Michael Langley, U.S. Africa Command Commander, remarked on the importance 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 AH-64E helicopters arrived in Morocco as part of a Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) initiative, which was first announced in 2020. U.S. Charge d’Affaires Aimee Cutrona highlighted the historical partnership between the two nations, stating, “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.”
The AH-64E model, enhanced since its development in 2012, possesses advanced features such as improved digital connectivity, powerful engines, and the capability to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These helicopters can travel at speeds of 150 knots (278 km/hr), with a range exceeding 450 km.
Lt. Colonel James Anderson, Chief of the Office of Security Cooperation in Rabat, emphasized the Apache’s capabilities in combating regional threats, noting, “The Apache helicopter, especially this model, brings advanced weaponry in reconnaissance and attack, enabling the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) to better secure their borders to deter and defeat terrorism in the region.”
The Utah Army National Guard (UTNG) has established a unique partnership with Morocco’s armed forces through the Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program (SPP), leading to enhanced training and collaboration. Major Jared Sorensen, Bilateral Affairs Officer of the UTNG, expressed optimism, stating, “The UTNG flies Apache helicopters, and we’re looking forward to taking advantage of more training opportunities together.”
Currently, 24 RMAF pilots have received training in the United States, alongside five instructor pilots, with additional training planned to ensure full operational capacity within six months. General Langley affirmed the significance of this partnership, stating, “These aircraft give the Royal Moroccan Air Force a lethal tool that will enable them to further our mutual security goals in the region.”
U.S. Africa Command manages all U.S. military operations in Africa, supporting regional security efforts and fortifying alliances. This strategic relationship with Morocco emphasizes shared security goals and enhances stability in the region.
In summary, Morocco’s acquisition of AH-64E Apache helicopters marks a pivotal advancement in its military capabilities and fortifies its security partnership with the United States. This procurement illustrates Morocco’s commitment to enhancing regional security, with support from established military cooperation programs, extensive training for personnel, and the active participation of U.S. forces. The long-standing and evolving partnership between the two nations not only bolsters Morocco’s defense but also aligns with broader U.S. strategic security interests in Africa.
Original Source: www.africom.mil
