logo
Morocco Receives First Batch of Apache AH-64E Helicopters

Morocco Receives First Batch of Apache AH-64E Helicopters

Morocco World27-02-2025

Rabat – Morocco's Royal Armed Forces received on Wednesday the first batch of Apache AH-64E combat helicopters.
The specialized military source FAR-Maroc Forum said in a post on X that an official reception ceremony will soon be held at the 7th Air Base in Khouribga.
The acquisition of Boeing-manufactured next-generation aircraft adds one of the world's most advanced attack helicopters to Morocco's military arsenal.
Recognized as one of the world's most advanced attack helicopters, the cutting-edge aircraft features an open systems architecture equipped with state-of-the-art communication, navigation, detection, and weapons systems.
The helicopters possess a modernized target designation and tracking system, providing comprehensive target information in day, night, and all-weather conditions, along with night vision navigation capabilities.
Read also: Moroccan Army Bolsters Air Defense with Advanced US Missiles
In addition to classifying ground and air targets, the fire control radar has been upgraded to function in naval environments.
Morocco signed a contract with Boeing in 2020 for the purchase of 24 Apache AH-64E attack helicopters at an estimated cost of $1.5 billion, with an option to acquire 12 additional helicopters.
The comprehensive agreement includes Hellfire missiles, rockets, advanced communication and navigation systems, maintenance equipment, and a training program for Moroccan personnel.
This acquisition represents a substantial enhancement to Morocco's military capabilities and reflects the country's ongoing commitment to modernizing its armed forces with advanced technology.
The Apache helicopters will significantly bolster Morocco's defensive capabilities, positioning the Royal Armed Forces as one of the best-equipped militaries in the region.
The delivery marks the beginning of the implementation phase of this major defense contract, strengthening Morocco's position as a key military power in North Africa. Tags: Apache AH-64EmilitaryMoroccan armyRoyal Armed Forces

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Morocco Receives First Oshkosh M-ATV Armored Vehicles for Desert Units
Morocco Receives First Oshkosh M-ATV Armored Vehicles for Desert Units

Morocco World

time7 hours ago

  • Morocco World

Morocco Receives First Oshkosh M-ATV Armored Vehicles for Desert Units

Doha – The Royal Armed Forces (FAR) have recently taken delivery of their first fleet of M-ATV Standard Base (SXB) tactical armored vehicles manufactured by the American company Oshkosh Defense. These vehicles are specifically designed to equip ground forces deployed in the Saharan and eastern regions of the country. According to converging reports, the port of Casablanca received a special shipment, with the vehicles appearing in recent pictures circulating across military forums. The armored vehicles combine mobility, ballistic protection, and operational capability in asymmetric environments. The delivery is part of the Special Defense Acquisition Fund (SDAF) established by the Pentagon and the US State Department to finance the purchase of defense equipment and services for transfer to allied partners and international organizations. The M-ATV vehicles, in service with the US Army since 2009, are equipped with Plasan composite armor compliant with STANAG 4569 level 4/3b/4 standards, providing effective resistance against 14.5 mm caliber fire, 8-kilogram anti-tank mines, and artillery fragments at a distance of 30 meters. These protection features ensure crew safety in high-risk contexts, particularly during operations in unstable areas. Each of these vehicles can be equipped with 7.62 mm M240 machine guns, 12.7 mm M2 heavy machine guns, 40 mm Mk19 automatic grenade launchers, or BGM-71 TOW anti-tank missile launchers. This weapons diversity allows field units to adapt to different threats and engage various targets effectively. Under the hood, the Caterpillar C7 turbocharged diesel engine delivers 370 horsepower, coupled with an Allison 3500SP six-speed automatic transmission. The Oshkosh TAK-4 independent suspension, combined with a robust design, allows these armored vehicles to reach a maximum speed of 105 km/h on roads while ensuring excellent maneuverability on rough terrain. Read also: Morocco's $260 Million Javelin Missile Purchase Gets US Approval Their operational range reaches approximately 510 kilometers, an important asset for long-distance operations in remote areas. In parallel, Morocco has also ordered HET A1 heavy logistics tractors equipped with specialized 635NL trailers, with delivery expected from summer 2025. Designed for moving oversized military equipment, these heavy transport vehicles are powered by a 700-horsepower Caterpillar C18 engine and feature a robust transmission system. 'We are proud to support the Kingdom in structuring its logistics capabilities by providing high-tonnage tractors for transporting the heaviest equipment,' Pat Williams, Oshkosh Defense's program director, said at the time of the official announcement in September 2024. 'This order reflects the confidence in our expertise in tactical mobility and advanced ground support.' The HET A1 tractors are equipped with two high-capacity winches, each capable of pulling nearly 25 tons, and benefit from advanced suspension and modular protections according to the Long-Term Armor Strategy (LTAS) doctrine. These features guarantee the safety of equipment and crews, even in hostile and complex environments. The M-ATV SXB version received by the FAR is the basic variant, while a distinct model intended for special forces—designated M-ATV SXF—is characterized by several structural differences not yet included in the contracts notified to Morocco. The M-ATVs will reinforce the Brimoto (motorized brigades) units deployed in the country's Saharan and eastern regions. Tags: Moroccan MilitaryRoyal Armed Forces (FAR)

Euromed University of Fez Ranks First in Morocco
Euromed University of Fez Ranks First in Morocco

Morocco World

time9 hours ago

  • Morocco World

Euromed University of Fez Ranks First in Morocco

Rabat – Euromed University of Fez (UEMF) has been ranked first in Morocco and second in Africa in the 2025 edition of the Round University Ranking (RUR). The University was ranked 353rd globally out of 1,100 universities evaluated in the ranking. The ranking is based on data provided by Thomson Reuters and evaluates institutions across several indicators, including teaching quality, research output, scientific impact, and international collaboration. UEMF 's national position places it ahead of Mohammed V University in Rabat (ranked 719th globally) and Cadi Ayyad University in Marrakech (ranked 1082nd globally). On the continental level, it is surpassed only by the University of Cape Town in South Africa. RUR 2025 – Moroccan Universities: Euromed University of Fez – 353rd worldwide (Score: 66.367) Mohammed V University of Rabat – 719th (Score: 48.772) Cadi Ayyad University of Marrakech – 1082nd (Score: 29.591) Read also: Euromed University of Fez to Build Morocco's First 'Smart' University Hospital The RUR results reflect a broader trend of Moroccan universities gaining increased visibility in global academic rankings. In addition to its position in the 2025 Round University Ranking, Euromed University of Fez (UEMF) has been featured in several recent international classifications. In the 2024 UI GreenMetric ranking, it was ranked first nationally and placed among the top 10 universities in Africa. According to U-Multirank, UEMF achieved first place globally in overall performance and ranked within the top 25 for student mobility. In Stanford University's 2024 ranking, four professors from UEMF were recognized among the top 2% of researchers worldwide. Furthermore, in the 2024 Times Higher Education ranking focused on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the university was listed second in Morocco and included among the top 600 institutions worldwide. The university has also been recognized by the Zairi International Awards and the Triple E Awards, and four of its faculty members were listed among the top 2% most cited researchers globally, according to Stanford University's rankings. These rankings and distinctions reflect UEMF's positioning within the academic landscape at both national and international levels. Tags: EuromedEuroMed University of FezWorld University Rankings

Morocco Imposes Provisional Anti-Dumping Duties on Egyptian PVC
Morocco Imposes Provisional Anti-Dumping Duties on Egyptian PVC

Morocco World

timea day ago

  • Morocco World

Morocco Imposes Provisional Anti-Dumping Duties on Egyptian PVC

Doha – Morocco has implemented provisional anti-dumping duties on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) imports from Egypt, with additional tariffs ranging from 74.87% to 92.19%. The measure took effect on Friday and will remain in place for four months, according to an announcement from the Customs and Indirect Tax Administration. The decision follows a joint order by the Minister of Industry and Commerce and the Minister of Economy and Finance. The duties specifically target Egyptian PVC imports under tariff code 3904.10.90.00. Egyptian Petrochemicals Company (EPC), Egypt's main producer in the sector, faces a 74.87% duty rate, while other Egyptian PVC producers and exporters will be subject to a higher rate of 92.19%. The investigation into alleged dumping practices began on November 27, 2024, following a request from SNEP, Morocco's leading PVC producer. Preliminary findings revealed evidence of dumping that caused serious damage to the national production sector. The anti-dumping investigation focused on suspension polymerized PVC resin, an essential component in various industrial sectors including construction, public works, packaging, and infrastructure. Two Egyptian companies were specifically targeted in the investigation: EPC, which fully cooperated with Moroccan authorities, and TCI Sanmar Chemicals S.A.E, which did not provide the expected data. Initially, EPC received a provisional margin of 18.29% based on information provided, while TCI Sanmar was assigned a 27.56% rate based on 'available facts' due to its lack of cooperation. These margins were later increased significantly in the proposed provisional measures. Investigation reveals harm from Egyptian imports The investigation exposed a substantial increase in Egyptian PVC imports, both in volume and proportion relative to national production and consumption. These imports consistently undercut prices in the Moroccan market, preventing local manufacturers from adjusting their own prices and limiting their profit margins and ability to invest or modernize. The effects on Morocco's national production sector were immediate and significant. Production decreased, sales declined, industrial capacity utilization rates fell, and the sector's overall profitability eroded. After rigorous analysis of available data, the ministry established a direct causal link between the increase in low-priced imports and the damage suffered by the national industry. Other potential causes, such as internal management problems or contraction in demand, were examined and dismissed as determining factors. Interested parties had until May 22 to submit written observations, comments, or additional information. A non-confidential version of the preliminary report was made available for consultation. Read also: Morocco Imposes Tariffs on Egyptian Canned Tomatoes to Protect Local Producers Tags: Anti-dumpingMorocco Egypt Trade

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store