The Apache Has Been in Service for Nearly 40 Years, But It’s Still Absolutely Lethal
The Boeing AH-64 Apache began as the Hughes Helicopters Model 77. The rotorcraft was developed to compete for the United States Army’s Advanced Attack Helicopter program to replace the AH-1 Cobra.
On 30 September 1975, the prototype YAH-64 flew for the first time. The US Army selected the YAH-64 over the Bell YAH-63 in 1976 and approved full production of the Apache in 1982. McDonnell Douglas purchased Hughes Helicopters in 1984 and continued production and development of the AH-64.
The Apache entered service with the US Army in April 1986, with the AH-64D Apache Longbow following in 1997. Today’s AH-64E is still one badass chopper that still remains absolutely lethal.
Enjoy this video of Apaches in action uploaded to YouTube by Military Archive.
[youtube id=”anfXNWLXLas” width=”800″ height=”454″ position=”left”]
Video credits: U.S. Army videos by Erich Backes, Specialist Alaura Lucas, Corporal Max Elliott, Staff Sergeant Jennifer Reynolds, Major Robert Fellingham, and Gertrud Zach
Still Making Rotary-Wing Badassery
Boeing Defense, Space & Security now produces the AH-64. More than 2,400 AH-64s have rolled off the assembly lines. With more than 1,200 aircraft in operation, accumulating over 4 million flight hours, including 1.3 million in combat, the AH-64 Apache represents the backbone of the US Army’s attack helicopter fleet and a growing number of international defense forces.
According to Boeing DS&S, the AH-64E will be in production until at least 2028. According to Boeing, the total number of flight hours for US Army Apaches stands at more than 4.8 million ( ! ) with 1.3 million hours of combat hours ( ! ! ).
Scoring an A on the Test of Time
“The Apache will serve the U.S. Army and its partner nations as the world’s primary attack helicopter into the 2060s. As Boeing and the U.S. Army continue to invest in next generation technologies, the Apache brings affordable Modular Open Systems Architecture capability to serve as a centerpiece in the Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) battlefield for decades to come.” Boeing produced 937 AH-64A Apaches between 1984 and 1997. Some remain in service today. Apaches have been exported to a number of countries, including Egypt, Greece, Israel, India, Singapore, the Netherlands, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the UK.
Not Your Father’s Apache- Just Better
“With the AH-64E in production until at least 2028, the Apache will serve the US Army and its partner nations as the world’s primary attack helicopter into the 2060s. As Boeing and the US Army continue to invest in next-generation technologies, the Apache brings affordable Modular Open Systems Architecture capability to serve as a centerpiece in the Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) battlefield for decades to come. The AH-64E Version 6 is the most modern configuration of the Apache and is ready for the MDO battlefield. A network-centric, fully integrated weapon system specifically built to dominate in highly contested and complex battle space, the Version 6 Apache includes multiple enhancements to the aircraft’s sensors, software, and weapons performance.”
Better Parts = a Better Attack Helicopter
The AH-64E Apache is the most advanced multi-role combat helicopter in the US Army’s arsenal and is also used by a growing number of global defense forces. To date, more than 500 AH-64E model Apaches have been delivered worldwide. The AH-64E features Advanced digital connectivity. Joint Tactical Information Distribution System, more powerful T700-GE-701D engines with upgraded face gear transmission to accommodate more power, capability to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and new composite main rotor blades.
