F-35A Jets Take Flight at Marrakech Air Show

On October 8, 2026, the American Air Force's F-35A stealth fighters soared through the skies alongside Moroccan F-16 jets during the inaugural day of the International Air Show in Marrakech. This display highlights the American fighter jets in front of Morocco, a nation reportedly interested in acquiring them, and which already has a growing inventory of American military equipment. The air show, taking place from October 7 to 10 at a base belonging to the Royal Moroccan Air Force in Marrakech, marks a significant event in military aviation.

Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of both aircraft types, announced the joint flight of the Moroccan F-16s and the F-35As, symbolizing the commencement of the four-day exhibition. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the presence of the F-35As is a notable highlight among approximately 45 American military personnel participating in the event. These aircraft are part of the 48th Fighter Wing, based at RAF Lakenheath in England, which is the largest American fighter wing in Europe and operates both F-35A and F-15E Strike Eagle jets.

Strengthening Military Ties and Future Prospects

The U.S. delegation also showcased two static display aircraft: the HC-130J Combat King II rescue aircraft from the 176th Airlift Wing of the Alaska Air National Guard and the KC-135 Stratotanker from the 151st Air Refueling Wing of the Utah Air National Guard. The Utah National Guard has maintained a partnership with Morocco since 2003 under the State Partnership Program, linking U.S. National Guard units with foreign military forces for regular training and exchanges.

Brigadier General Matthew J. French, the U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa’s Deputy Commander, expressed pride in being in Marrakech just ahead of the 250th anniversary of the U.S.-Moroccan alliance. He emphasized that Morocco’s hosting of this forum, as the oldest ally of the United States, reflects both nations' commitment to building robust and sustainable forces for allies and partners, enhancing their capabilities to address a changing security environment, thereby increasing their strength both individually and collectively.

Morocco was the first nation to recognize U.S. independence in 1777, and in 2004, Washington designated Morocco a major non-NATO ally. Meanwhile, the Moroccan Air Force is gearing up to receive a significant upgrade in capabilities. On October 6, Lockheed Martin announced that the first of 25 F-16 Block 72 fighters designated for Morocco successfully completed its inaugural flight in Greenville, South Carolina. The United States approved a deal in 2019 to sell these fighters for an estimated value of $3.8 billion, in addition to a separate package of approximately $985 million to upgrade 23 existing Moroccan F-16s to a similar standard.

Morocco remains one of the most consistent buyers of American ground equipment in Africa, including M1 Abrams tanks, AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, and HIMARS rocket systems. In 2024, the U.S. State Department approved the sale of 612 Javelin anti-tank missiles to Morocco, valued at approximately $260 million.

Discussions regarding Morocco's interest in acquiring F-35 jets have surfaced multiple times. Reports since 2025 indicated that Rabat is in talks to obtain up to 32 of these stealth aircraft. However, the U.S. government has yet to announce any formal approval for the sale of F-35s to Morocco, and neither government has officially confirmed the existence of negotiations in this regard.

American Ambassador to Morocco, Duke Buchan III, noted that the Marrakech Air Show is a global showcase for aviation innovation and a strong testament to the enduring friendship that has spanned nearly 250 years between the United States and Morocco. For decades, the forces of both nations have flown side by side, from crucial pilot training programs to complex joint operations. The United States remains firmly committed to standing alongside its Moroccan partners, providing the latest capabilities in aviation, and working together to enhance peace, stability, and mutual prosperity across the African continent.

As reported by defense-arabic.com.