The United States Department of War is set to participate in the 2026 Marrakech Airshow, scheduled from October 7 to 10, at the Royal Moroccan Air Force Base in Marrakech. This significant event will feature two F-35A Lightning II fighter jets performing a flyover, marking a notable demonstration of military prowess. The US delegation will comprise approximately 45 military personnel, underscoring the importance of this collaboration.
In addition to the F-35As from the 48th Fighter Wing stationed at RAF Lakenheath in the UK, the static display will include an HC-130J Super Hercules from the 176th Wing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska, as well as a KC-135 Stratotanker from the Utah National Guard. The 2026 iteration of the biennial Marrakech Airshow is particularly momentous as it draws nearly 200 exhibitors from 27 countries, along with over 250 high-level civilian and military delegations. The United Arab Emirates serves as this year's strategic partner, with a focus on themes such as industrial sovereignty, resilient supply chains, advanced defense systems, artificial intelligence, and satellite technology.
As Morocco hosts the eighth edition of this prominent event, it continues to establish itself as a vital platform for the aerospace and defense industries. The previous airshow in 2024 witnessed participation from 300 exhibitors and more than 75 official delegations, occupying a vast exhibition space of 12,500 square meters. This year's American military presence highlights the longstanding aviation relationship between the United States and Morocco, characterized by regular training and operational cooperation. Joint exercises feature aircraft like the F-16 Fighting Falcon and C-130 Hercules, with Moroccan aircrews engaging in collaborative missions and in-flight refueling operations with US KC-135 Stratotankers.
Brig. Gen. Matthew French, the Assistant to the Commander of USAFE-AFAFRICA, remarked on the significance of the airshow, coinciding with the upcoming 250th anniversary of the US-Moroccan alliance. He expressed honor in participating in the event, emphasizing its role in fostering strong and enduring partnerships. US Ambassador to Morocco, Duke Buchan III, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the airshow as a testament to the nearly 250-year relationship between the two nations, which began with Morocco being the first country to recognize US independence and establish diplomatic ties.
As the airshow unfolds, the American delegation views it as a valuable opportunity for pilots, maintainers, and security professionals to engage in person, exchange innovative ideas, and reinforce operational ties between the United States and Morocco.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
