The Australian Army will shortly conclude Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH Tiger) flying operations in Darwin, marking a significant milestone in the transition to the new AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopter capability. In recognition, the 1st Aviation Regiment will mark the occasion with an open day for members and their families, a formal dinner and a flyover of Darwin. When introduced into Australian service, the ARH Tiger combined the capabilities of the unarmed Kiowa reconnaissance helicopter and the Bushranger armed version of the Iroquois utility helicopter, into a single platform that integrated intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare and strike effects.
Commander Army Aviation, Major General David Hafner AM CSC said,”The ARH Tiger had provided Army with an armed reconnaissance capability for two decades. The end of ARH Tiger flying operations is a significant moment for the 1st Aviation Regiment, but it also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we continue our relocation to Townsville and further build Australia’s attack helicopter capability around the AH-64E Apache. Our soldiers, aircrew and maintainers have achieved an extraordinary transition from the ARH Tiger to the Apache, while continuing to deliver training and operational outputs. Their dedication has ensured Army remains ready for the future.”
The Eurocopter EC665 Tiger, is a four-blade, twin-engine attack helicopter which first entered service in 2003. It is manufactured by Airbus Helicopters, formerly Eurocopter, which arose from the merger of Aérospatiale’s and DASA’s respective helicopter divisions. Airbus Helicopters designates it as the EC665. In France and Spain, the helicopter is known as the Tigre (which is French and Spanish for Tiger), while in Germany and Australia it is referred to as the Tiger. The Tiger has the distinction of being the first all-composite helicopter developed in Europe; even the earliest models also incorporate other advanced features such as a glass cockpit, stealth technology, and high agility to increase its survivability.
The retirement of the ARH Tiger reflects its planned 20-year service life and Australia’s need to operate in an evolving threat environment, where advanced air defence systems, precision weapons and uncrewed platforms present challenges better suited to the capabilities of next generation battlefield helicopters such as the AH-64E Apache. The Apache is replacing the ARH Tiger within the 1st Aviation Regiment and will deliver enhanced firepower, networking and interoperability capabilities to support future Army operations. This successful transition was demonstrated in July 2026, when Australian Army AH-64E Apache crews conducted their first live-fire activities in Townsville. Six Apaches have been delivered to Australia, with all 29 helicopters expected to be delivered by the end of 2029.
