Throughout the day, the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces released a series of images announcing the arrival of the first six Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters. The officially released footage not only showcases the unloading of these aircraft from a RO-RO vessel but also reveals additional equipment accompanying the purchase, such as trucks and containers.
At the end of January this year, the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces confirmed that they were about to receive their first batch of AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters from the United States. At that time, more details about the Moroccan aircraft became available, particularly their two-tone paint scheme, designed for operations in the country’s distinct North African terrain.
As previously reported, the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces confirmed in late June 2020 the signing of a contract for the acquisition of 24 Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters. This is the latest variant developed by the U.S. company, already in service with the U.S. Army Aviation Regiments, as well as the armed forces of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Taiwan, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and India, among others.
Previously designated as the AH-64D Block III, the latest variant of the iconic U.S. attack helicopter was rebranded as the AH-64E Apache Guardian to reflect its enhanced capabilities. These include improved digital connectivity, the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System, and more powerful T700-GE-701D engines with an upgraded front gear transmission to support increased power output.
Additional upgrades in the AH-64E Apache Guardian include the ability to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), full IFR capability, and a reinforced landing gear. “…The new composite rotor blades, which successfully completed testing in 2004, increase cruise speed, rate of climb, and payload capacity…,” states the U.S. Army.
Thanks to the photographs published by the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, it is evident that alongside the AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, Oshkosh HEMTT and FMTV trucks also arrived, forming part of the ground support component for Morocco’s new Apaches.
*Cover image: Royal Moroccan Armed Forces.
