Morocco receives Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters

• Boeing has delivered 2 500 Apache helicopters
• The first batch of Moroccan Apache underwent a comprehensive series of tests and technical assessments
• Boeing is constructing the new Moroccan Apache under a contract with the U.S. Army

The Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) has proudly taken delivery of its inaugural batch of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, marking a significant turning point in the nation’s ambitious defence modernization campaign. This acquisition heralds a new era of aerial power and operational capability for Morocco.

In June 2020, Morocco made a strategic decision to invest in 24 AH-64Es through a $440 million contract, building on a request submitted in late 2019. This arrangement further provides the option to secure an additional twelve helicopters from Boeing, thereby amplifying the nation’s aerial fleet. The production of these formidable machines commenced in November 2023, setting in motion Morocco’s enhanced defence posture.

Christina Upah, Vice President of Attack Helicopter Programs at Boeing, underscored the pivotal nature of this delivery, stating emphatically that the Apache’s will bolster Morocco’s defence capabilities for years to come. She characterized the AH-64E as “the world’s most advanced, proven attack helicopter,” a testament to its unrivalled performance and reliability in complex combat scenarios.

Boeing commenced the delivery of these remarkable helicopters in January 2025, with an unexpected detour as three AH-64Es made an overnight stop at Midland/Odessa Air Terminal in Texas, creating a sense of intrigue before they continued their journey to Morocco. The serial numbers of these helicopters are 2403, 2404, and one undisclosed.

A formal reception ceremony was conducted on Monday, March 3, 2025, at the 1st Air Base in Salé, where military personnel gathered to honour the arrival of the first batch of six AH-64E Apache helicopters. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of pride and anticipation as these machines, emblematic of advanced military technology, touched down on Moroccan soil.

To date, Boeing has delivered 2 500 Apache helicopters to sixteen nations, including prominent partners such as the United States, Netherlands, Greece, United Kingdom, Japan, India, Singapore, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia. Deliveries to Morocco are slated to commence in 2024, further integrating the nation into a network of advanced military capabilities.

“This milestone represents another important step forward in our long-standing partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco,” stated Jeff Shockey, Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing at Boeing Defence, Space & Security and Government Services. “With the increasing global demand for the Apache, we take pride in extending this best-in-class capability to Morocco.”

Boeing is constructing the new Moroccan Apache under a contract with the U.S. Army through the U.S. government’s Foreign Military Sales program. The AH-64E is designed with a sophisticated target acquisition and designation system that delivers critical information across various conditions, alongside night vision navigation capabilities that facilitate effective operations in low visibility scenarios. The upgraded fire control radar is also capable of functioning effectively in maritime environments.

The first batch of Moroccan Apache underwent a comprehensive series of tests and technical assessments to confirm their operational readiness before being inducted into the Royal Air Force. Reports indicate that construction of ten helicopters has been completed to date, demonstrating progress in this critical acquisition program.