British Army receives three new Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from United States.

On August 29, 2024, the British Ministry of Defense confirmed the delivery of three additional Apache AH-64E attack helicopters by Boeing to the British Army, thereby expanding its attack helicopter fleet. These helicopters have been delivered to the 656 Squadron of the 4th Regiment Army Air Corps at Wattisham Flying Station, where they are currently undergoing acceptance checks. This latest delivery brings the total number of Apache AH-64E helicopters in the UK to 41, with plans to eventually complete a fleet of 50.
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The British fleet of AH-64E attack helicopters achieved initial operational capability in May 2023 and is projected to reach full operational capability by 2026. (Picture source: British MoD)

The British Ministry of Defense's acquisition of the Apache AH-64E through a Foreign Military Sales program was finalized in 2020 for approximately $2.3 billion. The first helicopters arrived at Wattisham Flying Station in November 2020, and deliveries have continued since then, with final delivery scheduled for 2024. The new fleet achieved initial operational capability in May 2023 and is projected to reach full operational capability by 2026. The helicopters have already been utilized in various military exercises, including Exercise Iron Titan in the UK and Exercise Swift Response in Finland and Estonia.

To support the new fleet, Boeing Defence UK has been awarded a 20-year contract to provide long-term training and support services. This contract will create more than 200 jobs in the UK, including 165 positions at the Army Aviation Centre at Middle Wallop in Hampshire and 45 at Wattisham Flying Station in Suffolk. This support service will cover areas such as maintenance and engineering support, supply chain and logistics management, and training for aircrew and ground crews.

This fleet is replacing the Apache Mk1 helicopters, which were in service with the British Army from 2001 until their retirement earlier this year. The Apache AH-64E Guardian is an upgraded version of a platform that originated with Hughes Helicopters in the 1970s. Its predecessor, the AH-64A, entered service in 1986 and has since undergone several modifications, including the AH-64D Longbow, which featured advanced radar and missile capabilities. The AH-64E represents the latest evolution of this platform, incorporating numerous enhancements in speed, maneuverability, and avionics to meet the demands of modern military operations.

The Apache AH-64E has been deployed in various international military operations, demonstrating its utility in close combat, reconnaissance, and anti-armor missions. (Picture source: US DoD)

The Apache AH-64E model, initially designated as the AH-64D Block III and renamed in September 2012, includes several key upgrades over earlier versions. These improvements encompass more powerful GE T700-GE-701D turboshaft engines, composite main rotor blades, an improved rotor drive system, and advanced avionics. The helicopter's open systems architecture facilitates future technological upgrades and compatibility with other military systems. The AH-64E’s enhanced sensors and communication systems improve its performance in combat scenarios. In the US Army, the AH-64E is organized in Attack/Reconnaissance Battalions, each consisting of 24 aircraft assigned to Combat Aviation Brigades, with plans to sustain its Apache AH-64E fleet through 2040, aiming to acquire 690 aircraft, including 634 remanufactured and 56 new builds.

The AH-64E model has been fielded in two versions, 1 and 4, with a Version 6 planned for future deployment. Version 1 improvements include the capability for aircrews to control the flight path and payload of an Unmanned Aircraft System, enhanced communication systems, and improved flight performance. Version 4 retains these capabilities and adds hardware and software for Link 16 network participation. Version 6 is expected to introduce additional features, including a Radar Frequency Interferometer passive ranging system, Fire Control Radar range extension, a Cognitive Decision Aiding System, a Maritime Targeting mode, and a Modernized Day Sensor Assembly with updated displays.

The Apache AH-64E has been deployed in various international military operations, demonstrating its utility in close combat, reconnaissance, and anti-armor missions. It is equipped with 16 Hellfire missiles, 70 Hydra-70 rockets, and 1,200 rounds of 30mm ammunition. Its maximum speed is 330 km/h, with a combat range of 482 kilometers, and it can be operated by a crew of two. The AH-64E also supports a range of missions, including Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR), escort and force protection, and Command and Control (C2).

Armed with 16 Hellfire missiles, 70 Hydra-70 rockets, and 1,200 rounds of 30mm ammunition, the AH-64E can reach a maximum speed of 330 km/h, with a combat range of 482 kilometers. (Picture source: British MoD)