Morocco Acquires Apache Helicopters for Royal Armed Forces

The General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) has announced the reception of a second batch of seven AH-64E Apache combat helicopters. The acquisition is part of a broader effort to modernize the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) and enhance the kingdom’s aerial combat capabilities.

The delivery of these aircraft follows the initial acquisition of Apache helicopters, which was commemorated during a ceremony at Sale Air Base near Rabat on March 5, 2025. The current procurement process is tied to a Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) initiative that was first announced in 2020.

The integration of the AH-64E into the RMAF is intended to provide a significant upgrade in warfighting capabilities. According to official communications from the FAR, the acquisition aligns with high-level directives to strengthen national security and regional stability.

Technical Capabilities of the AH-64E

The AH-64E Apache is an advanced version of the combat helicopter first developed in 2012. It incorporates several technical enhancements over previous models, designed to improve connectivity and operational efficiency in complex environments.

Key features of the AH-64E include:

• Improved digital connectivity for better coordination between units.
• More powerful engines to increase performance and reliability.
• The capability to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), allowing for expanded reconnaissance and targeting.
• Full Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) capability, enabling the aircraft to operate in adverse weather conditions.
• Improved landing gear for enhanced durability during field operations.

In terms of performance, the AH-64E can reach speeds of 150 knots, which is approximately 278 kilometers per hour. The aircraft also possesses an operational range of over 450 kilometers, providing the RMAF with extended reach for security and combat missions.

U.S.-Morocco Security Partnership

The acquisition of the Apache helicopters is a result of the long-standing security cooperation between the United States and Morocco. This partnership is supported by diplomatic ties that date back nearly 250 years, beginning when Morocco was the first nation to recognize the independence of the United States.

During the initial delivery ceremony on March 5, 2025, U.S. Officials emphasized the strategic importance of this military cooperation. U.S. Charge d’Affaires Aimee Cutrona noted that the growth of this security relationship advances the interests of both nations within the region and globally.

Gen. Michael Langley, the U.S. Africa Command Commander, highlighted the impact of the investment on regional security during the first phase of the delivery.

“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.”

Gen. Michael Langley, U.S. Africa Command Commander

Strategic Implications for the RMAF

The addition of the second batch of seven helicopters further solidifies the RMAF’s transition toward more sophisticated attack aviation. By utilizing the AH-64E’s ability to integrate with UAVs and its enhanced digital suite, Morocco is increasing its capacity for precision strikes and intelligence gathering.

The General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces indicated that the reception of this second lot is a continuation of the strategic modernization plan for the kingdom’s defense infrastructure. The use of these helicopters is expected to improve the RMAF’s ability to respond to security threats and maintain stability in North Africa.