The Royal Moroccan Air Force received its second batch of six Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, underscoring a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s ongoing drive to modernize its rotary-wing strike capabilities.
Moroccan media reported on April 7 that the second lot consists of six helicopters, with serials in the 2407-2412 range, under the phased delivery of the 24-aircraft order signed with Boeing in 2020, alongside an option for 12 more.
The delivery brings Morocco’s operational rotary-wing fleet to 12 aircraft. These helicopters have arrived at the 7th Air Base in Khouribga, a facility that has undergone extensive upgrades to accommodate two Apache squadrons within its Aerocombat Wing. This shipment follows the initial tranche of six aircraft delivered in March 2025.
The arrival ceremony underscored the strategic depth of the U.S.–Moroccan partnership. Among the key attendees were Abdellatif Loudiyi, Delegate Minister for the National Defense Administration; General Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces; and General Michael Langley, Commander of U.S. Africa Command.
By adhering to the phased delivery schedule, the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) is positioned to incorporate these platforms into its force structure without imposing undue strain on its logistics sustainment or on its pilot training pipeline.
This acquisition traces its origins to a June 2020 contract valued at roughly $1.5 billion for 24 helicopters, along with an option to procure an additional 12 units. Boeing began assembling the aircraft at its Mesa, Arizona, facility in November 2023.
The AH-64E Apache Guardian is conceived as a networked “digital warrior” tailored to high-intensity warfare. The aircraft is propelled by two General Electric T700-GE-701D turboshaft engines, delivering 2,000 shaft horsepower each. This power plant enables speeds of approximately 300 kph and supports operations at a service ceiling of 20,000 feet. The airframe is also engineered to remain flight-capable after sustaining impacts from 23mm-class ammunition, underscoring its survivability in contested environments.
The remaining 12 helicopters from the original 24-unit order are expected to be delivered in phased increments through late 2026 and 2027. Once the 7th Air Base attains full operational capability, the Royal Moroccan Air Force will operate one of the most technologically advanced rotary-wing fleets on the continent. Future developments may include exercising the option for the additional 12 aircraft, which would raise the total fleet size to 36 units. (Moroccan Media; Military Africa; DSCA; Photo © Royal Moroccan Air Force)
