US Approves Logistical Support Agreement for Australia's AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopter Fleet.

The United States announced on August 23, 2024, that it has approved a new support agreement for Australia's future fleet of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. This agreement, valued at an estimated $300 million (AUD 444 million), further strengthens the already solid strategic ties between the two nations.

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Boeing AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopter (Picture source: Wikimedia)

Approved by the US State Department and currently awaiting congressional approval, this agreement will provide Australia with the necessary technical and logistical support to keep its AH-64E Apache attack helicopters operational. This support is crucial for preparing the Australian Defense Force (ADF) to face increasingly complex security challenges in the region.

In parallel with this support agreement, the United States has also approved a potential sale of military equipment to Australia, including 29 Apache helicopters, engines, radars, missile systems, and communication equipment. Estimated at $3 billion, this sale aims to enhance Australia’s capability to conduct autonomous military operations while contributing to shared regional security objectives.

The American companies Boeing and Lockheed Martin will play a central role in the implementation of this program. They will provide engineering services, technical support, as well as the training and logistics necessary for the ADF to integrate these advanced systems. To ensure the successful transfer of expertise, up to four representatives from the US government and their contractors will be deployed to Australia for a period of up to five years.

This agreement, approved by the United States, reflects the strategic importance that Washington places on Australia as a key ally in the Pacific region. It also reinforces Australia’s commitment to improving its ability to respond to regional threats while supporting collective security efforts.

This approval comes amid expanding defense relations between the two countries. On August 8, 2024, the Institute for Public Affairs recommended that Australia consider acquiring the American B-21 Raider stealth bomber. A few days later, on August 19, 2024, another $100 million deal was approved for the sale of 350 Javelin missiles to Australia.

Although the initial cost of this support agreement for the Apache helicopters is estimated at $300 million, the final amount could vary depending on needs and budget adjustments, providing the necessary flexibility to meet Australia’s evolving defense requirements.