On 1 September 2025 the Alkowat al Malakiya al Jawiya (FARM, Royal Moroccan Air Force) signed a contract with Airbus Helicopters for the delivery of ten H225M Caracal multi-role tactical transport helicopters.
Morocco’s interest in the Caracal dates back to December 2021 when the FARM entered initial talks with Airbus for eight helicopters. Negotiations were suspended amid diplomatic tensions between Rabat and Paris but discussions resumed in September 2024 with reports suggesting Morocco was considering a fleet of twelve aircraft. By November 2024 negotiations had advanced to a ten-aircraft package although the final agreement remained pending. High-level talks included Airbus CEO Bruno Even’s participation during French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco reflecting the strategic importance of the deal.
The agreement also includes the prospect of establishing a local Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) centre in Morocco. Such a facility would not only sustain FARM’s Caracal fleet but could also position Morocco as a regional hub for helicopter support in West Africa.
The H225M acquisition forms part of Morocco’s broader defence modernisation programme. Recent procurements include the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopter and the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70/72 Viper fighter jet both of which significantly enhance Morocco’s air combat and rotary-wing capabilities. Collectively these acquisitions underline Rabat’s determination to modernise its armed forces and reinforce national security in an increasingly complex regional environment.
