The United States Air Force (USAF) showcased its capabilities at this week’s Marrakech Air Show (MAS), with notable displays from its logistic fleet. The event, held at the Royal Moroccan Air Force base in one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, saw the arrival of a C-30J Super Hercules from Ramstein Air Base in Germany, alongside a Utah Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker that made its way across the Atlantic Ocean.
According to a statement from US Africa Command, the USAF’s participation in this international exhibition aims to bolster US and international security assistance efforts, as well as enhance strategic partnerships with African countries. Brigadier General Ricky Mills, Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force, International Affairs, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are glad to be back in Morocco. Interactions and exchanges with our partners at MAS 2024 allow us to learn from and leverage the strengths of other nations.”
Joining him was USAF Brigadier General Shawn Holtz, Deputy Director of Strategy, Engagement, and Programmes for US Africa Command. He emphasized the long-standing partnership between the United States and the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco, noting that Morocco hosts Africom’s largest exercise, African Lion, and has partnered with the Utah National Guard for more than two decades.
During the Marrakech Air Show, the generals engaged in bilateral discussions with senior leaders from the Morocco Royal Armed Forces and other African military leaders. These conversations underscored the strategic partnership between the US and Morocco, rooted in shared interests in regional peace, security, and prosperity, and a long-standing commitment to continued cooperation.
Organised jointly by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the National Defence Administration and MEDZ, a subsidiary of the Caisse de Dépôt et de Gestion, this international event is intended to be both a first-rate showcase for the latest innovations in the sector and a meeting platform for professionals seeking business opportunities.
The Utah National Guard’s active partnership with Morocco, established in 2003 through the State Partnership Programme, focuses on security cooperation. This relationship, built on trust and mutual respect, has been strengthened through joint training and humanitarian missions. Both forces regularly exchange knowledge, refine tactics, and enhance their operational capabilities.
The Marrakech Air Show and the discussions held therein highlight the enduring and evolving strategic partnership between the US and Morocco. As these two nations continue to collaborate closely, their shared efforts in promoting regional stability and security are set to grow even stronger.
