Morocco Strengthens Military Capabilities with New Apache Helicopters
RABAT, Morocco (Oct. 26, 2026) — In a significant advancement for its defense capabilities, the Kingdom of Morocco celebrated the receipt of six AH-64E Apache helicopters from the United States during a ceremonious ribbon-cutting event held at the 1st BAFRA Sale, adjacent to Rabat-Sale International Airport. This event was attended by Maj. Gen. Matthew W. Brown, the commanding general of the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, alongside senior leaders from the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, symbolizing the deepening military ties between the two nations.
This latest delivery has brought Morocco's total number of Apache helicopters to 19 out of the 24 planned under a foreign military sales agreement valued at approximately $1.3 billion. Notably, Morocco stands out as one of only two African countries operating the Apache helicopters, and it is the sole nation on the continent to field the advanced AH-64E variant.
During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Brown emphasized the importance of this moment, stating, “This ceremony marks a consequential moment made possible by Morocco’s commitment to its own defense capabilities and the broader security of the region.” He highlighted the Apache helicopter as the most capable attack and reconnaissance helicopter globally, underscoring its strategic significance.
The integration of these helicopters aligns with the Joint Readiness and Interoperability objectives outlined in the 2026-2036 Defense Cooperation Roadmap, which was officially signed at the Pentagon in April. Brown further noted that U.S. and Moroccan pilots, along with ground forces, will have the opportunity to train jointly on these aircraft during future iterations of the African Lion exercises, recognized as the continent’s premier joint military exercise.
“Integrating these platforms into the continent’s premier joint exercise will directly increase our combined readiness, making our forces stronger and more capable of operating and fighting alongside each other,” Brown remarked, highlighting the collaborative nature of this military enhancement.
He also acknowledged Morocco’s pivotal role in regional security, asserting that it is “vital and deeply valued by the United States of America.” The ribbon-cutting ceremony stands as a testament to the strength of the U.S.-Morocco alliance. “We look forward to the continued growth of this historic alliance as we strive for a future of shared security, stability, and regional peace,” Brown concluded.
It is noteworthy that Morocco was the first country to recognize the United States in 1777, establishing the longest-standing treaty relationship in U.S. history, a fact that underscores the enduring partnership between the two nations.
About SETAF-AF
The Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), is committed to preparing Army forces, executing crisis responses, enabling strategic competition, and strengthening partnerships to achieve the objectives of U.S. Army Europe and Africa and the U.S. Africa Command. Headquartered in Vicenza, Italy, SETAF-AF comprises a dedicated team of Soldiers and Department of Army Civilians who are committed to Army Values and supported by Italian partners. Its structure includes the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the 207th Military Intelligence Brigade, the 414th Contracting Command, and the 509th Signal Battalion, providing a diverse range of capabilities across three combatant commands.
As reported by dvidshub.net.
