Morocco Enhances Military Capability with AH-64 Apache Helicopter Purchase

Morocco has officially acquired AH-64E Apache helicopters to enhance the capabilities of its Royal Moroccan Air Force. This purchase contributes to both national security and U.S. foreign policy. Key figures emphasize the importance of this acquisition and ongoing training initiatives to improve operational efficiency and regional stability.

On March 5, 2025, Morocco formally received its initial procurement of AH-64E Apache helicopters in a ceremony held at Sale Air Base near Rabat. This acquisition is a pivotal advancement for the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) and further reinforces both American foreign policy and national security interests.

Gen. Michael Langley, the Commander of U.S. Africa Command, remarked, “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, which arrived from the United States as part of a Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) initiative unveiled in 2020, upgrade Morocco’s military capabilities considerably.

Aimee Cutrona, the U.S. Charge d’Affaires, emphasized 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.” She noted that current developments reflect the ongoing U.S.-Morocco security cooperation that serves mutual interests both in the region and globally.

The AH-64E model, introduced in 2012, features advanced capabilities, including improved digital connectivity, more powerful engines, and UAV control, with speeds reaching up to 150 knots (278 km/hr) and 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 (UTNG) maintains a significant partnership with Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces, which facilitates extensive training and enhances cooperation through the Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program (SPP). Maj. Jared Sorensen expressed optimism about joint training efforts, highlighting the benefits of operational synergy: “The UTNG flies Apache helicopters and we’re looking forward to taking advantage of more training opportunities together.”

To date, 24 RMAF pilots have completed training in the U.S. and are now qualified helicopter pilots, with five instructor pilots and three more expected shortly. Specific training on the Apache helicopters will position the entire squadron to be fully operational in approximately six months. Gen. Langley commented further, “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 oversees all military operations on the African continent, focusing on enhancing regional security and stability while advancing U.S. interests. The command continues its commitment to fostering alliances and ensuring prosperity through partnership and military collaboration.

In conclusion, Morocco’s acquisition of AH-64E Apache helicopters represents a significant enhancement of the Royal Moroccan Air Force’s capabilities. This purchase is emblematic of the deepening security partnership between Morocco and the United States, which dates back nearly 250 years. The cooperative efforts, including extensive training and operational synergy opportunities, aim to bolster regional security and address threats effectively.

Original Source: www.africom.mil