Sky-High Alliance: U.S. F-35s and Combat-Ready Wings Celebrate 250 Years of Friendship at 2026 Marrakech Airshow
Marrakech, Morocco - The U.S. Department of War is participating in the 2026 Marrakech Airshow (MAS) at the Marrakech Royal Moroccan Air Force Base, Oct. 7-10. The highlight of the American Airpower portion will be a dynamic F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter flyby, demonstrating the unmatched, integrated capabilities of the U.S.–Moroccan security partnership in North Africa.
Approximately 45 U.S. military personnel will participate in the airshow including: a flyover conducted by F-35A Lightning II’s from the 48th Fighter Wing, RAF Lakenheath, UK; a HC-130J Super Hercules static display from the 176th Wing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska; and a KC-135 Stratotanker static display from the Utah National Guard.
Behind the roar of the engines at this year’s Marrakech Airshow are the dedicated U.S. and Moroccan aircrews who make these complex operations look effortless. Beyond the metal and technology, this flight represents the deep human connection between American service members and their African partners. Events like the Marrakech Airshow allow pilots, maintainers, and security professionals to work together in person, exchange ideas, and build the trust that forms the true foundation of our shared security.
“It is an honor to be at Marrakech ahead of the 250th anniversary of the U.S.-Moroccan Alliance,” said U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Matthew J. French, Air National Guard assistant to the commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa. “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 us stronger in both our individual and combined capacities.”
Morocco was the first country to recognize the independence of the United States and seek diplomatic relations with America. After almost 250 years the U.S.-Morocco alliance remains rooted in shared interests of regional peace, security, and prosperity, our two nations are committed to continued cooperation on issues of common interest.
"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." – Ambassador Duke Buchan III, U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco
AFRICOM is one of seven U.S. geographic combatant commands, responsible for military engagement across 53 African nations. The command protects the U.S. homeland through working with willing and able African partners to address shared security threats and advances U.S. national interests through promoting security, stability, and prosperity.
As the air component for both U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command, USAFE-AFAFRICA conducts and enables forward-based global operations over three continents and more than 19 million square miles. The 48th Fighter Wing is the largest U.S. fighter operation in Europe, with four combat ready fighter squadrons of F-15Strike Eagles and F-35A Lightning II aircraft.
The Utah National Guard has had an enduring and viable partnership with Morocco since 2003 through the State Partnership Program. The 151st Wing operates the KC-135R Stratotanker, engaging in air refueling operations, aeromedical evacuation, and critical cargo missions.
The Alaska Air National Guard's 176th Wing, is one of the largest and most operationally complex wings in the Air National Guard. The 176th Wing operates a versatile fleet, utilizing the C-17A Globemaster III for global strategic airlift, the HC-130J Combat King II for long-range rescue operations, and the HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter alongside Guardian Angel personnel to power the busiest rescue force in the Department of War.
For media inquiries, imagery, or interview requests regarding Marrakech Airshow 2026, please contact the AFRICOM Public Affairs Office at mailto:africom-pao@mail.mil.
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