The Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) is strengthening the Australian Army’s capacity to protect and defend nation with the first successful live-firing of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters on Australian soil. During Exercise Possum Guns in Townsville, the Australian Army conducted a series of training missions that demonstrated the aircraft’s various weapon systems against simulated targets, including the 30mm gun, rockets and Hellfire missiles. The successful live-fire activity demonstrates the aircraft’s growing operational readiness and enabled aircrew, maintainers and support personnel to develop and test the procedures required to safely train, sustain and employ. The live-firing was supported by personnel from the 1st Aviation Regiment and the 16th Aviation Support Battalion who trained in refuelling, rearming and gunnery techniques, laying the foundation for the continued expansion of the AH-64E Apache capability.
Commander Australian Army Aviation, Major General David Hafner said,“The successful live-fire activity represented an important step in the maturation of Army’s attack helicopter capability. Live-fire training is a vital part of preparing our aviation crews for operations. Conducting it regularly in Australia helps maintain the high level of proficiency needed to operate effectively. This is a significant milestone for Army Aviation. Conducting our first live-fire in Australia demonstrates that we are building a capable, safe and sustainable Attack Helicopter capability. Our aircrew, maintainers and support personnel will now conduct routine live-fire training and continue to integrate the Apache’s advanced capabilities into joint force operations.
This milestone marks a significant step in the introduction of the AH-64E Apache into service with the Australian Army and the ADF. These proven helicopters are a key element of Army’s transformation into a force optimised for littoral manoeuvre and with a long-range strike capability, as highlighted in the 2026 National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program. The AH-64E Apache will provide critical attack aviation effects, including reconnaissance, communications and networking, firepower and offensive support to the integrated force. Defence is acquiring a fleet of 29 AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters through the United States, with the first six aircraft having been delivered to Townsville. All 29 aircraft are expected to be delivered by 2029.
The Boeing AH-64 Apache is an American twin-turboshaft attack helicopter with a tailwheel-type landing gear and a tandem cockpit for a crew of two. Nose-mounted sensors help acquire targets and provide night vision. It carries a 30 mm (1.18 in) M230 chain gun under its forward fuselage and four hardpoints on stub-wing pylons for armament and stores, typically AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and Hydra 70 rocket pods. Redundant systems help it survive combat damage. In 2012, the AH-64D Block III variant was redesignated the AH-64E Guardian. Compared to earlier variants, the E model’s Joint Tactical Information Distribution System has better digital connectivity. Its T700-GE-701D engines offer more power; it has upgraded face gear transmission to handle it. The E model can control and exchange data and video with UAVs on the C, D, L, and Ku frequency bands, thanks to an L-3 Communications MUMT-X datalink that replaced two older counterparts.
