Morocco Bolsters Military Arsenal with Apache Helicopters Amid Regional Tensions

Reception on March 5 of a first fleet of AH-64 Apache combat helicopters from the United States, acquisition of high-tech systems, construction of a technological autonomy strategy... Morocco is developing its military capabilities in the face of regional tensions, according to a multinational report titled Morocco Radar – Morocco’s Defense Modernization: Strategic Investments in Security, Policy Brief No. 2, published by Geopolitical Monitor (Canada), in partnership with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V. (German foundation affiliated with the CDU) and the Global Governance & Sovereignty Foundation (Morocco).

In addition to the AH-64 Apache combat helicopters, Morocco has acquired high-tech systems, such as 19 Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones with 27-hour endurance and guided strike capability. These devices have already been deployed in the south of the country. The kingdom has also acquired the new Akinci model, capable of traveling 7,500 km and carrying heavy loads of smart munitions. "The endurance of the Akinci drone, its ability to operate at high altitude, and its satellite integration capability significantly modify the kingdom’s strategic posture," the report states.

Morocco has also shown interest in the latest generation equipment: 36 Caesar self-propelled howitzers (France), the Israeli Atmos 2000 howitzer, and soon HIMARS M142 systems equipped with ATACMS missiles, supplied by the United States. These latest generation pieces are in addition to the F-16 Block 70/72 equipped with the AESA APG-83 radar, scheduled for delivery in 2027. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the kingdom’s military expenditure amounted to $5.5 billion in 2024, or 3.5% of GDP.

Morocco is not content with just acquiring weapons. The kingdom has implemented a strategy of technological autonomy. An agreement has already been concluded with the Turkish company Baykar for the establishment of a drone maintenance and assembly plant in the kingdom, with an annual production capacity of up to 1,000 units.

On the diplomatic front, the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) are pursuing a policy of multilateral openness: technical cooperation with Turkey, strategic partnership with France, strengthened security ties with Israel, lasting anchoring in joint exercises with the United States, hosting of the African Lion exercise since 2007, according to the report.

Despite efforts, naval and digital gaps remain. "Despite its 3,500 kilometers of coastline, Morocco remains under-equipped in multipurpose frigates, offshore patrol vessels, and anti-submarine capabilities. This deficit limits its naval projection capability and its protection against illicit trafficking," the report emphasizes, recommending the adoption of a maritime strategy equipped with modern means, capable of securing territorial waters, particularly off the Strait of Gibraltar.