U.S.-Moroccan Military Cooperation Takes Center Stage at Marrakech Airshow

The Marrakech Airshow, running from October 7 to 10, has opened with a significant display of military collaboration between the United States and Morocco, as U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters took to the skies alongside Moroccan F-16s. This event underscores Morocco's growing arsenal of American-made military equipment and its expressed interest in acquiring the advanced F-35 fighter jets. Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of both aircraft, highlighted this impressive aerial demonstration, which marked the beginning of the four-day airshow at a Royal Moroccan Air Force base. The U.S. Department of War noted that the F-35A flyby is an integral part of the U.S. military presence, which includes approximately 45 personnel from the 48th Fighter Wing based at RAF Lakenheath in England, the largest fighter wing in Europe that operates both F-35As and F-15E Strike Eagles.

Morocco's Military Modernization and Future Aspirations

Morocco's air force is on the verge of a significant upgrade, highlighted by the recent maiden flight of its first new F-16 Block 72 fighter on October 6. This acquisition, part of a $3.8 billion deal approved by the U.S. in 2019, includes a package for upgrading 23 existing F-16s to the same modern standard. The commitment to advanced military capabilities is further evidenced by Morocco's consistent procurement of U.S. ground equipment, including M1 Abrams tanks, AH-64E Apache helicopters, and HIMARS rocket systems. Recently, the U.S. State Department authorized the sale of 612 Javelin anti-tank missiles to Morocco, valued at approximately $260 million, reinforcing the strong military ties between the two nations.

While Morocco has shown keen interest in the F-35, with discussions about acquiring up to 32 stealth fighters surfacing since 2025, no formal approval for such a sale has been announced by the U.S. government. This potential acquisition signifies Morocco's strategic ambitions within the region, as it continues to bolster its defense capabilities. U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Matthew J. French emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, "Hosted by the United States’ oldest Ally, this forum best illustrates our goal of establishing strong and enduring Allied and partner forces for an evolving security environment." The longstanding relationship between the U.S. and Morocco, dating back to Morocco's recognition of American independence in 1777, is further solidified as both nations work together to promote regional stability and shared interests.

As reported by defence-blog.com.