Morocco Set to Receive First Apache AH-64E Attack Helicopters from $4.25 Billion US Deal

The US State Department authorized in 2019 the sale to Morocco of 36 Apache AH-64E attack helicopters (24 new, 12 optional) and associated equipment for an estimated amount of $4.25 billion. The kingdom has already purchased F-16 fighter jets, Abrams tanks and Patriot air defense and anti-missile systems from the United States, recalls El Debate.

The Bush administration approved the sale of the Apache AH64E to Morocco in order to improve the security of an "important non-NATO ally" who is a "major force for political stability and economic progress in North Africa," it is specified. Morocco has been implementing a program to strengthen and modernize its army for about ten years to ward off any potential threat from Algeria, an ally of the Polisario against the kingdom in the Sahara conflict, and to put pressure on, in the long term, to recover Sebta and Melilla, as well as the Spanish rocky islands that it continues to claim, says the publication.

According to its manufacturer Boeing, the Apache AH64E is a state-of-the-art weapon system that has long-range sensors and weapons. The aircraft can be used for both combat and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The first Apache was put into service in 1984. Countries like Egypt, Greece, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom have already acquired this helicopter for their armies.