Morocco Orders 24 Boeing Apache Helicopters Worth $4.25 billion

Morocco has ordered 24 Boeing AH-64 Apache Helicopters worth an estimated $4.24 Billion which will potentially include a kit to control nearby drones.

A contract for 24 of the helicopters that was recently signed, Boeing announced. While the value of the contract has not been specified, a US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) statement approving the Morocco sale in November 2019 had specified the potential sale value at $4.25 billion. The approval included an option for 12 additional AH-64Es.

The DSCA notice had also said that the sale approved to buy 21 manned-unmanned teaming video receivers and 39 manned-unmanned teaming air-to-air-to-ground kits. A manned-unmanned teaming kit (MUTK) would allow an Apache pilot to control the operations and receive video feed of a nearby unmanned air vehicle (UAV).

The MUTK would make the Moroccan Apaches one of the most advanced outside the US. Deliveries to Morocco are expected to begin in 2024.

Morocco was earlier considering the Turkish T-129 ATAK helicopters.  

In addition,  Boeing was awarded a $439,179,677 modification contract Thursday for new-build Apache AH-64E aircraft and Longbow crew trainers for Morocco.

The AH-64E Apache is the latest configuration of the attack helicopter. It is designed and equipped with an open systems architecture including the latest communications, navigation, sensor and weapon systems. It has an improved Modernized Target Acquisition Designation System that provides day, night and all-weather target information, as well as night vision navigation capability. In addition to classifying ground and air targets, the Fire Control Radar has been updated to operate in a maritime environment.