Morocco has officially received its first batch of six AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, marking a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing defense modernization efforts. The helicopters arrived at Tanger Med Port and were formally welcomed during a ceremony at the 1st Air Base in Salé in March 2025.

The $440 million contract for 24 helicopters was signed in June 2020, with an additional option for 12 more units. Boeing started production in November 2023.

The AH-64E Apache Guardian is the latest variant of Boeing’s renowned attack helicopter, featuring advanced General Electric T700-701D turboshaft engines, upgraded Longbow AN/APG-78 fire-control radars, and enhanced Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Systems (MTADS). These improvements provide superior target acquisition capabilities in day, night, and all-weather conditions, as well as advanced night vision navigation.

“The Apache helicopters will significantly strengthen Morocco’s defense capabilities for years to come,” said Christina Upah, Boeing’s Vice President of Attack Helicopter Programs. “Boeing’s partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco spans decades, and I am proud the Apache is now part of this legacy.”

Jeff Shockey, Boeing Defense Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing, added, “Worldwide demand for the Apache is growing, and we are proud to provide this best-in-class capability to Morocco.”

The Moroccan Apache deal also includes 551 Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, 200 AIM-92H Stinger air-to-air missiles, and 558 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) precision-guided rocket kits. GE Aviation is supplying 48 T700-701D engines and spare parts, while Longbow LLC—a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman—is providing the advanced radar systems.

Morocco’s acquisition of the AH-64E Apaches is part of a broader military modernization strategy aimed at enhancing air superiority and deterrence capabilities amid rising regional tensions, particularly with instability in the Sahel and neighboring Algeria. The Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) currently operates aging Aerospatiale SA342L Gazelle helicopters, procured in 1978, which the Apaches will replace.

In addition to the Apache helicopters, Morocco has ordered 25 Lockheed Martin F-16C/D Block 72 fighter jets, bringing its total F-16 fleet to 48 units. Reports also indicate Morocco is preparing to receive 30 Mirage 2000 aircraft from the UAE, further bolstering its air defense capabilities.

Morocco’s defense budget has steadily increased, reaching approximately $13 billion in 2025, making it Africa’s second-largest military spender behind Algeria. Recent procurements include advanced systems such as the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), AGM-154C Joint Stand-Off Weapons (JSOW), and FGM-148F Javelin missiles. Morocco is also reportedly exploring the acquisition of F-35 stealth fighters to counter Algeria’s Su-57 aircraft.

The AH-64E Apache Guardian has been widely adopted by U.S. allies, including the United Kingdom, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and India. Boeing has delivered nearly 2,500 Apache helicopters to 16 nations, with Morocco becoming the 17th country to operate the platform.

“The AH-64E Apache represents a major step forward in Morocco’s defense modernization,” said a spokesperson from the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces. “This acquisition underscores our commitment to maintaining regional stability and security.”