In a landmark moment for African aviation, two US Air Force F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters conducted a dynamic flyby over the Marrakech Royal Moroccan Air Force Base, marking the first time the fifth-generation jet has flown in African skies.
The appearance of the advanced stealth aircraft is the centerpiece of the American contribution to the 2026 Marrakech Airshow (MAS), which runs October 7–10.
The flyover, performed by jets from the 48th Fighter Wing based at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom, showcases the depth of the US-Moroccan security partnership in North Africa.
Approximately 45 US military personnel are taking part in the event.
Alongside the F-35A flyby, visitors can view static displays of an HC-130J Super Hercules from the 176th Wing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, and a KC-135 Stratotanker from the Utah National Guard.
The participation comes as the United States and Morocco approach the 250th anniversary of their alliance.
Morocco was the first country to recognize American independence and seek diplomatic relations with the young United States. Officials on both sides highlighted the enduring nature of the partnership.
“It is an honor to be at Marrakech ahead of the 250th anniversary of the U.S.-Moroccan Alliance. Hosted by the United States’ oldest Ally, this forum best illustrates our goal of establishing strong and enduring Allied and partner forces for an evolving security environment. It makes all of us stronger in both our individual and combined capacities,” said, in a statement, Brig. Gen. Matthew French, Air National Guard Assistant to the Commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa.
“The Marrakech Air Show is a world-class exhibition of aviation innovation and a powerful testament to the enduring, nearly 250-year friendship between the United States and the Kingdom of Morocco. For decades, our nations have flown side-by-side, from our vital pilot training pipelines to our complex joint operations. The United States remains deeply committed to standing with our Moroccan partners, delivering cutting-edge aerospace capabilities and working hand-in-hand to promote regional peace, stability, and shared prosperity across the African continent,” US Ambassador to Morocco Duke Buchan III echoed the sentiment.
The U.S.-Morocco aviation relationship is built largely around the F-16 Fighting Falcon and C-130 Hercules. Morocco’s F-16 fleet forms the backbone of its air combat capability and regularly trains with US forces, including during the annual Exercise African Lion.
