In a recent development, Boeing has been granted a contract modification to manufacture an additional 21 AH-64E Apaches for both the U.S. Army and an international customer. This award is an extension of the multiyear contract previously given to Boeing in March 2023, bringing the new total of Apache helicopters to be produced under this contract to 205 units. The AH-64 Apache is a highly capable twin-turboshaft attack helicopter, featuring a tailwheel-type landing gear arrangement and a tandem cockpit designed for a crew of two. It is equipped with a nose-mounted sensor suite for precise target acquisition and advanced night vision systems. Armed with a 30 mm (1.18 in) M230 chain gun positioned between the main landing gear, under the aircraft’s forward fuselage, and four hardpoints mounted on stub-wing pylons, the Apache can carry various armaments and stores, typically including a mix of AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and Hydra 70 rocket pods.
Christina Upah, the vice president of Attack Helicopter Programs and senior Boeing Mesa site executive, emphasized the necessity of these additional E-model Apaches, highlighting the aircraft’s unparalleled capabilities for defense forces. Upah expressed pride in continuing to supply the world’s best attack helicopter to both U.S. and international customers. Under the contract awarded in March 2023, the U.S. Army will receive five additional remanufactured E-model Apaches, while 16 AH-64Es will be manufactured for an international operator as part of the DoD’s Foreign Military Sales program. Boeing Global Services will continue to provide comprehensive support, including training devices, spare provisions, support and test equipment kits, depot support, field engineering, and technical manuals, ensuring optimal readiness for the warfighter.
Previously known as AH-64D Block III, the aircraft was redesignated as AH-64E Guardian in 2012, incorporating various upgrades and improvements. These enhancements include enhanced digital connectivity, the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System, more powerful T700-GE-701D engines with upgraded face gear transmission, enabling the handling of higher power, capability to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), full IFR capability, and improved landing gear. Furthermore, the AH-64E is equipped with new composite rotor blades, enhancing cruise speed, climb rate, and payload capacity. Deliveries of the AH-64E commenced in November 2011, and full-rate production was approved on October 24, 2012, with plans to upgrade 634 AH-64Ds to AH-64Es.
The production lots 4 through 6 have seen additional upgrades, including a cognitive decision aiding system and new self-diagnostic capabilities. The updated Longbow radar also possesses an oversea capacity, potentially enabling naval strikes, with consideration for an AESA radar. The AH-64E is equipped with the L-3 Communications MUMT-X datalink, allowing communication on C, D, L, and Ku frequency bands to transmit and receive data and video with all Army UAVs. Furthermore, Lots 5 and 6 are equipped with Link 16 data-links. The AH-64E has been designed for maritime use, and there has been expressed interest in extended-range fuel tanks for greater endurance. As of April 2020, 500 AH-64Es have been successfully delivered.
