Morocco’s Military Leap: Apache Helicopters Reshape Regional Power Balance

In a recent article, Defensa, a website specialized in military issues, demonstrates that the first 24 Apache AH-64E helicopters ordered, and 12 additional ones that will be added, are changing the game for the Moroccan army. "The introduction of these advanced attack helicopters into the arsenal of the Moroccan Armed Forces constitutes a qualitative and historical transformation of their offensive air capabilities," writes the publication, noting that "this step completes a long journey, as the country has relied for decades on a fleet of lighter and technologically older ’Aérospatiale’ helicopters, which have formed the backbone of its air fire support and armed reconnaissance capability, particularly during the Sahara War in the 1980s."

For the author of the article, "Morocco, with the receipt of the first 24 Apache helicopters ordered, and the possibility of receiving 12 more, is entering a new era of tactical air warfare," because "this Apache helicopter represents the pinnacle of Western technology in attack helicopters, offering a devastating mix of firepower, advanced sensors and a high survivability capability." What about the characteristics of the aircraft? "The main armament of this helicopter includes the 30 mm M230 Chain Gun, capable of firing 625 rounds per minute with great accuracy against personnel and light armor, as well as a load capacity of 16 anti-tank AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, including the radar and laser-guided L/R versions that Morocco has acquired; in addition, 588 APKWS 70 mm rockets that Morocco has recently obtained."

Designed for multi-mission roles and offering enhanced capabilities, the Apache AH-64E helicopter is a model equipped with the latest communication, navigation, sensor, and armament systems, including laser-guided Hellfire missiles to destroy tanks, and a 30 mm cannon capable of firing 600 rounds per minute. "The Apache helicopters give the Moroccan army the ability to impose tactical air superiority on the battlefield, effectively eliminate adversary capabilities such as those of the Polisario Front or even Algeria, and reduce casualties among the Moroccan forces; this tilts the balance of power in favor of Morocco in any potential confrontation, significantly enhancing its ability to deal with armored threats and conduct precision strikes day and night," explains the website specialized in military issues.