US Participation in Marrakech Airshow 2026
The United States Department of War is set to play a significant role in the upcoming 2026 Marrakech Airshow, scheduled to take place from October 7 to October 10 at the Royal Moroccan Air Force Base in Marrakech. Highlighting this participation will be a flyover by two F-35A Lightning II fighter jets, showcasing the advanced capabilities of the US military. Accompanying this aerial display will be a delegation of approximately 45 military personnel, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in defense and aerospace.
Two F-35A fighter jets from the 48th Fighter Wing stationed at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom will perform the flyover, while additional aircraft, including an HC-130J Super Hercules from the 176th Wing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska and a KC-135 Stratotanker from the Utah National Guard, will be featured in the event's static display. This event marks the eighth edition of the biennial Marrakech Airshow, which has grown to attract nearly 200 exhibitors from 27 countries and over 250 high-ranking civilian and military delegations.
Strengthening US-Morocco Defense Ties
The Marrakech Airshow has evolved into a vital platform for Morocco's aerospace and defense sectors, further highlighted by the participation of the United Arab Emirates as a strategic partner this year. The event aims to foster discussions on themes such as industrial sovereignty, resilient supply chains, cutting-edge defense systems, artificial intelligence, and satellite technology. The previous edition in 2024 saw participation from 300 exhibitors and over 75 official delegations, occupying an impressive 12,500 square meters of exhibition space.
This year's US military presence at the airshow underscores the longstanding aviation partnership between Washington and Rabat, characterized by regular joint training and operational exercises, particularly involving the F-16 Fighting Falcon and C-130 Hercules aircraft. Joint missions during the annual Exercise African Lion illustrate the collaborative efforts between US and Moroccan aircrews, which include in-flight refueling operations that enhance the capabilities of Moroccan pilots for extended missions.
Brig. Gen. Matthew French, the ANG Assistant to the Commander of USAFE-AFAFRICA, expressed pride in participating in the airshow, especially as it precedes the 250th anniversary of the US-Moroccan alliance. He noted that the event serves to bolster strong and enduring ties between allied forces. US Ambassador to Morocco Duke Buchan III echoed this sentiment, highlighting the airshow as a testament to the nearly 250-year relationship between the two nations, which includes extensive collaboration in flying, pilot training, and military operations.
Historically, Morocco was the first nation to recognize US independence and establish diplomatic relations with the United States. Nearly 250 years later, both countries continue to collaborate closely on matters of regional peace, security, and shared interests. The airshow presents an invaluable opportunity for pilots, maintainers, and security professionals to engage in person, fostering idea exchange and enhancing operational connections between the US and Morocco.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
