Boeing AH-64 Apache facts for kids

Quick facts for kids AH-64 Apache
An AH-64 Apache from the U.S. Army's 101st Aviation Regiment in Iraq
Role	Attack helicopter
National origin	United States
Manufacturer	Hughes Helicopters (1975–1984) McDonnell Douglas (1984–1997) Boeing Defense, Space & Security (1997–present)
First flight	30 September 1975
Introduction	April 1986
Status	In service
Primary users	United States Army Israeli Air Force Egyptian Air Force Royal Netherlands Air Force
Produced	1975–present
Number built	2,400 as of April 2020[update]
Variants	AgustaWestland Apache

The Boeing AH-64 Apache is a powerful American attack helicopter. It has two engines and a special design with a small wheel at the back for landing. Two crew members sit one behind the other in the cockpit. The Apache has special sensors at its front for finding targets and seeing at night. It carries a 30 mm machine gun under its body. It also has four places on its small wings to carry weapons like AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and Hydra 70 rockets. The AH-64 is built with many backup systems to help it survive in combat.

The Apache started as the Model 77 by Hughes Helicopters. It was part of a program for the United States Army to replace the Bell AH-1 Cobra. The first test flight of the YAH-64 happened on September 30, 1975. The U.S. Army chose the YAH-64 in 1976. Full production was approved in 1982. After McDonnell Douglas bought Hughes Helicopters in 1984, they continued making the AH-64. The helicopter joined the U.S. Army in April 1986. An improved version, the AH-64D Apache Longbow, was delivered in March 1997. Boeing Defense, Space & Security now makes the Apache. By 2020, over 2,400 AH-64s had been built.

The U.S. Army is the main user of the AH-64. Many other countries also use it as their main attack helicopter. These include Greece, Japan, Israel, the Netherlands, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. A version of the Apache is also built in the United Kingdom under license, called the AgustaWestland Apache. American AH-64s have been used in conflicts in Panama, the Persian Gulf, Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Israel has used the Apache in its military actions in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip. British and Dutch Apaches have also been used in wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

How the Apache Was Developed

Building a Better Attack Helicopter

After another helicopter project was canceled in 1972, the United States Army wanted a new aircraft. This aircraft would be used to attack tanks and would be controlled by the Army. The Army needed something better than the Bell AH-1 Cobra. It wanted a helicopter with more firepower, better performance, and longer range. It also needed to fly low to the ground, following the land's shape. So, in November 1972, the U.S. Army asked companies to propose designs for an Advanced Attack Helicopter (AAH). This project was so important that in 1973, it was named one of the Army's "Big Five" projects.

Several companies, including Bell and Hughes, submitted ideas. In July 1973, the U.S. Department of Defense chose Bell and Hughes as finalists. Each company built a prototype helicopter for testing. Hughes' Model 77/YAH-64A first flew on September 30, 1975. Bell's Model 409/YAH-63A flew the next day. After reviewing the tests, the Army chose Hughes' YAH-64A in 1976. One reason was that the YAH-64A's four-blade main rotor could handle more damage.

The AH-64A then moved into the second phase of the AAH program. Three pre-production Apaches were built. The two YAH-64A prototypes were also updated. During this time, weapons and sensor systems were added and tested. This included the laser-guided AGM-114 Hellfire missile. The Hellfire missile was designed to give helicopters an effective way to destroy tanks.

Starting Production

In 1981, three early AH-64As were given to the U.S. Army for more tests. The Army's tests went well. It was then decided to use a more powerful engine, the T700-GE-701. The AH-64 was named Apache in late 1981. This followed the tradition of naming Army helicopters after Native American tribes. Full production was approved in 1982. In 1983, the first production helicopter was finished at Hughes Helicopter's factory in Mesa, Arizona. McDonnell Douglas bought Hughes Helicopters in 1984. The helicopter part of the company later became part of Boeing in 1997. In 1986, each AH-64A cost about $7 million to build.

In 1985, a report found that some design issues still needed fixing. The Army project manager listed 101 things to improve. By 1991, after several changes, the main rotor blades were improved. They could then last for 1400 flight hours, which was much closer to the Army's goal.

More Improvements Over Time

During the 1980s, McDonnell Douglas looked into an AH-64B. This version would have an updated cockpit and new weapon control systems. But in 1988, a more advanced upgrade program was approved. In August 1990, the development of the AH-64D Apache Longbow was approved. The first AH-64D prototype flew on April 15, 1992. Testing finished in April 1995. During tests, six AH-64D helicopters were compared to a larger group of AH-64As. The results showed that the AH-64D was much better at surviving and attacking. In October 1995, full production was approved. A contract was signed in 1996 to upgrade 232 AH-64As to AH-64Ds. The first production AH-64D flew in March 1997.

Other companies also help build parts of the Apache. AgustaWestland has made parts for the Apache, including for the British Army's version. Since 2004, Korea Aerospace Industries has been the only company making the Apache's main body.

By May 2019, Boeing tested a model of a "compound Apache." This design included a propeller at the back to push it faster. It also had small wings to help it fly further and faster. This was part of a competition for the U.S. Army's future aircraft.

Apache Helicopter Design

How it Looks and Works

Apache version	Engine version	Engine power
AH-64A+/D	General Electric T700-701	1,696 shp (1,265 kW)
AH-64A+/D	General Electric T700-701C	1,890 shp (1,410 kW)
AH-64E	General Electric T700-701D	1,994 shp (1,487 kW)
WAH-64D	Rolls-Royce Turbomeca RTM322	2,100 shp (1,600 kW)

The AH-64 Apache has a main rotor with four blades and a tail rotor with four blades. The pilot sits behind and slightly above the co-pilot/gunner. Both crew members can fly the helicopter and use its weapons. The Apache is powered by two General Electric T700 engines. These engines have high-mounted exhausts on each side of the helicopter's body. Different engine models have been used. British Apaches use engines from Rolls-Royce. In 2004, General Electric Aviation started making more powerful T700-GE-701D engines for the AH-64D.

The crew area and rotor blades are designed to withstand hits from 23 mm rounds. The helicopter's body has about 2,500 pounds of protection. It also has a special fuel system that seals itself if hit. This helps protect the helicopter from bullets. There is a clear shield between the pilot and gunner. This shield helps ensure at least one crew member can survive a direct hit.

The Apache was designed to be safe in a crash. It has a strong structure, special landing gear, and seats that absorb impact. This helps protect the crew from injuries in case of a hard landing.

On a normal day, the AH-64 can climb 1,775 feet per minute. It can fly as high as 21,000 feet. However, on a hot day, the air is thinner. This reduces its climb rate to 1,595 feet per minute and its maximum height to 19,400 feet.

High-Tech Systems and Targeting

One amazing feature of the Apache is its helmet-mounted display. This system allows the pilot or gunner to control the 30 mm machine gun with their head movements. So, the gun points wherever they look! The gun can also be locked to fire straight forward or controlled by the Target Acquisition and Designation System (TADS). Newer Apaches use Lockheed Martin's Arrowhead (MTADS) system for targeting.

The AH-64 was built to fly in tough conditions, day or night, and in bad weather. It has many sensors and systems to help with this. These include the Target Acquisition and Designation System, Pilot Night Vision System (TADS/PNVS), which helps with night vision. It also has GPS and the helmet display system. Apaches with the Longbow radar can find up to 256 targets at once within 50 kilometers. In 2012, some U.S. Army AH-64Ds got the Ground Fire Acquisition System (GFAS). This system finds where ground weapons are being fired from, even in the dark.

In 2014, new targeting sensors were being developed. These would give crews high-resolution color images, replacing older black-and-white systems. Lockheed received a contract in 2016 to upgrade the Arrowhead system. This will provide better color images with longer range and a wider view. The U.S. Army also adapted its Apaches for better performance over water. This included a radar that can find small ships and software for maritime targets.

Weapons and How They Are Used

Mission	Hellfire	30 mm rounds	Hydra 70	Maximum speed (knots)	Rate of climb (feet/min)	Endurance (hours)
Anti-Armor	16	1,200	0	148	990	2.5
Covering Force	8	1,200	38	150	860	2.5
Escort	0	1,200	76	153	800	2.5

The AH-64 can be used for many different combat roles. Besides its 30 mm M230E1 Chain Gun, the Apache carries various weapons on its small wings. These usually include AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles and Hydra 70 rockets. The Hellfire missile is designed to destroy tanks up to 6,500 meters away.

Since 2005, a Hellfire missile with a special warhead (AGM-114N) has been used. This version is for attacking ground forces and in city battles. In 2015, the U.S. Army ordered its first Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guided rockets for the Apache.

In the 1980s, air-to-air missiles like the Stinger were considered for the AH-64. The Stinger was chosen. External fuel tanks can also be carried on the wings to fly longer distances. Stinger missiles are often used on Apaches in other countries. This is because these countries might not have as many fighter jets to control the skies.

The AH-64E can even control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones. The U.S. Army uses these drones for scouting missions. Apaches can take control of drones like the RQ-7 Shadow or MQ-1C Grey Eagle. This allows them to scout safely from a distance. Drones can search for enemies and, if they have a laser, can mark targets for the Apache or other friendly aircraft.

Boeing has suggested that the AH-64 could be fitted with a directed energy weapon, like a laser. The company has developed a small laser weapon that could destroy enemy communication equipment. In 2017, the Army and Raytheon successfully tested a helicopter-based laser system on an AH-64.

In 2016, the AH-64 successfully tested the MBDA Brimstone anti-armor missile. In 2020, the U.S. Army started using the Spike NLOS missile on AH-64E Apaches. This missile allows the helicopter to attack targets from a greater distance.

Apache in Action

United States Military Use

In January 1984, the U.S. Army officially accepted its first AH-64A. Pilot training began later that year. The first Apache unit started training in April 1986. In September 1987, two Apache units with 68 helicopters went to Europe for large military exercises.

When the Apache was first used, its night vision capabilities were amazing. It could fly beyond the front lines, which other attack helicopters couldn't do. The Apache also had a radio system that allowed it to talk to U.S. Air Force planes. This helped them work together on missions. The Apache often worked with close air support planes like the A-10 Thunderbolt II. It would often help mark targets for these planes. The Apache was first used in combat in 1989 during Operation Just Cause in Panama. It flew over 240 combat hours, mostly at night, attacking different targets. General Carl Stiner, the commander, said: "You could fire that Hellfire missile through a window from four miles away at night."

Almost half of all U.S. Apaches were sent to Saudi Arabia in 1990 after Iraq invaded Kuwait. During Operation Desert Storm in January 1991, eight AH-64As destroyed part of Iraq's radar network. This allowed other attack planes to fly without being seen. Each Apache carried a mix of rockets, Hellfires, and an extra fuel tank. During the 100-hour ground war, 277 Apaches took part. They destroyed 278 tanks and many other Iraqi vehicles. One AH-64 was lost in the war after being hit by a rocket. The crew survived. Even though it was good in combat, the AH-64 was hard to keep supplied. There were not enough spare parts. To get parts for the war, the U.S. Army stopped all other AH-64s worldwide from flying.

The AH-64 was also used in the Balkans during conflicts in Bosnia and Kosovo in the 1990s. In 1999, 24 Apaches were sent to Albania for combat in Kosovo. But the Apaches faced problems like not enough pilot training for night vision. Also, the Yugoslav air defenses were strong. No Apache combat missions happened in Kosovo. Two Apaches were lost in training accidents.

Apache in the 21st Century

U.S. Apaches served in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan starting in 2001. It was the only Army helicopter that could provide accurate close air support. Apaches often flew in small teams. On March 24, 2003, during the invasion of Iraq, 31 Apaches were damaged. One was shot down in an attack near Karbala. Iraqi tank crews had set up a trap. The AH-64 landed mostly intact, and the crew was captured. The helicopter was destroyed by an air strike the next day. This event showed that the AH-64, though strong, could be vulnerable to ground fire.

By the end of U.S. military operations in Iraq in December 2011, some Apaches had been shot down or lost in accidents. In 2006, an Apache was downed by a Soviet-made missile in Iraq. In 2007, four Apaches were destroyed on the ground by mortar fire. This happened because insurgents used publicly available photos taken by soldiers to find their location. Most Apaches that took heavy damage could still finish their missions and return safely. By 2011, U.S. Army Apaches had flown over 3 million hours.

In February 2013, the first U.S. Army unit received the AH-64E Apache Guardian. By mid-2013, 24 AH-64Es were delivered. In March 2014, the AH-64E was first used in combat in Afghanistan. It flew 11,000 hours and had a high readiness rate. The AH-64E flies 20 mph faster than the AH-64D. This means it can respond to calls for help much faster. It also uses fuel more efficiently, so it can stay in the air longer. Taliban forces were surprised by the AH-64E attacking sooner and for longer. AH-64Es also worked with drones to find targets. Pilots often controlled drones and watched their video feeds. This allowed them to see the battlefield from a safe distance.

In 2014, the Army started moving all Apaches from the Army Reserve and National Guard to the active Army. They would be used as scout helicopters to replace the OH-58 Kiowa. Using the AH-64 for scouting would be cheaper than upgrading the Kiowa. AH-64Es can control drones like the MQ-1C Grey Eagle for scouting missions.

In July 2014, Apaches were sent to Baghdad to protect embassy staff from Islamic State attacks. In October 2014, Apaches began missions against Islamic State ground forces. In June 2016, Apaches supported the Iraqi Army's Mosul offensive. They flew night missions during the Battle of Mosul. In December 2019, two Apaches helped protect the U.S. embassy in Baghdad after militants tried to storm it.

Apache in Israel

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) first received AH-64As in 1990. By 2000, they had 42 Apaches. In April 2005, Boeing delivered Israel's first AH-64D. In Israeli service, the AH-64A was called Peten (Cobra). The AH-64D was named Saraph (venomous/fiery winged serpent).

During the 1990s, Israeli AH-64As often attacked Hezbollah bases in Lebanon. In 1996, an Apache mistakenly fired at an ambulance, killing six civilians. During the al-Aqsa Intifada in the 2000s, AH-64s were used to target senior Hamas figures. Human Rights Watch reported instances of IAF Apaches attacking civilian homes in 2002. They urged the U.S. government to ensure Apaches were not used to violate humanitarian law.

IAF Apaches were important in the 2006 Lebanon War. They launched strikes into Lebanon against Hezbollah forces. During this war, two AH-64As crashed after colliding. One pilot died, and three were badly hurt. Another AH-64D crashed due to a rotor problem, killing both crew members. Israeli officials praised the Apache for its role in Operation Cast Lead in 2008. IAF Apaches often patrol the skies over Gaza.

In the 2010s, Israel upgraded its AH-64A fleet. By 2013, IAF AH-64As were getting new avionics and electrical systems. These upgrades brought them close to the AH-64D standard. IAF Apaches can carry Spike anti-tank missiles instead of Hellfire missiles.

IAF AH-64s have also been used in air-to-air combat. In 2001, an IAF AH-64A shot down a civilian plane that entered Israeli airspace and refused to respond. In 2018, an AH-64 destroyed an Iranian drone that entered Israeli airspace from Syria.

Apache in the United Kingdom

The UK uses a special version of the AH-64D Apache Longbow. It was first called the Westland WAH-64 Apache. The British Army calls it the Apache AH1. Westland built 67 WAH-64 Apaches under license from Boeing. This happened after a competition in 1995. The British version has more powerful Rolls-Royce engines. It also has folding rotor blades for use on naval ships.

In 2016, the UK confirmed a deal to buy 50 AH-64Es from the U.S. These will be built in Mesa, Arizona. The older WAH-64s will be maintained until 2023–2024. Parts from the old helicopters will be used in the new ones if possible. The new Apaches are expected to join the British Army in 2022. The first two AH-64Es were delivered to the British Army in November 2020.

Apache in the Netherlands

The Dutch government wanted to buy Apache helicopters in the late 1980s. In 1995, the Royal Netherlands Air Force ordered 30 AH-64D Apaches. Deliveries started in 1998 and finished in 2002. The Dutch Apaches have a special self-protection system. This system helps protect them from infrared missiles.

The Dutch Apaches were first used in 2001 in Djibouti, Africa. They also worked with U.S. Apaches in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In 2004, six Dutch AH-64s were sent to Iraq. They supported Dutch ground forces by providing close combat support and reconnaissance. In February 2006, six AH-64s were sent to Afghanistan to support NATO forces.

In April 2004, two Dutch Apaches came under light gunfire near Kabul. In December 2007, a Dutch Apache hit power lines during a night exercise. This caused an emergency landing and a long power outage. In March 2015, a Dutch Apache crashed during a training mission in Mali. Both pilots died.

In February 2018, the Netherlands decided to upgrade all its AH-64Ds to the latest AH-64E standard. The upgraded AH-64Es are expected between 2023 and 2025.

Apache in Saudi Arabia

After the 1991 Gulf War, Saudi Arabia bought twelve AH-64As for the Royal Saudi Land Force. In 2006, Saudi Arabia started talks to upgrade its Apaches to the AH-64D version. In September 2008, the U.S. Government approved Saudi Arabia's request to buy 12 AH-64Ds. In October 2010, Saudi Arabia asked for 70 more AH-64Ds.

In November 2009, the Royal Saudi Land Force used Apaches in a military effort against rebels in Yemen. The Apaches launched air strikes against Houthi rebels. In January 2010, the rebels claimed to have shot down an Apache, but Saudi Arabia denied this.

Starting in March 2015, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates used their AH-64s in the Yemeni Civil War. They used them against the Houthis. The Apaches were mostly used for border patrol and strikes in North Western Yemen. Several Saudi and an Emirati Apaches have been lost due to accidents and enemy fire. In March 2017, an Apache reportedly attacked a refugee boat, killing 42 refugees. Saudi Arabia denied involvement.

Apache in the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates bought 30 AH-64As between 1991 and 1994. They started upgrading them to the AH-64D version in 2008. In December 2016, the U.S. State Department approved a plan to sell 37 more AH-64Es to the UAE. This included 28 upgraded and nine new helicopters.

A UAE AH-64 was reportedly lost in October 2017. A replacement was approved in 2019.

Apache in Egypt

In 1995, the Egyptian Air Force ordered 36 AH-64As. These Apaches had the same systems as the U.S. fleet, except for their radios. In 2000, Boeing announced an order to upgrade Egypt's Apaches to the AH-64D version. However, they did not get the Longbow radar. In 2009, Egypt asked for 12 more AH-64D Block IIs with Longbow radars.

In August 2012, the Egyptian Armed Forces used their Apaches in a large military operation. They aimed to regain control of the Sinai Peninsula from armed militants. The Apaches reportedly destroyed three vehicles and killed at least 20 militants. In September 2015, an Egyptian Apache attacked a group of foreign tourists by mistake. It killed 12 people and injured 10. The Egyptian Interior Ministry said the group was in a restricted area.

In November 2018, the U.S. Department of State approved the sale of ten AH-64Es to Egypt. This deal was worth US$1 billion.

Apache in India

In 2008, the Indian Air Force (IAF) looked for 22 attack helicopters. In December 2010, India asked to buy 22 Apaches. In October 2012, the IAF confirmed it had chosen the Apache. In April 2013, the Indian Ministry of Defence decided that the 22 AH-64s would go to the IAF. India ordered the 22 AH-64Es in 2015.

On May 11, 2019, India received its first AH-64E. On September 3, 2019, 8 AH-64Es joined the IAF. In June 2018, the U.S. approved a possible sale of six more AH-64Es to India. In February 2020, another six for the Indian Army were ordered. Deliveries are planned to start in 2023.

Other Countries Using the Apache

Greece received 20 AH-64As by 1995. They ordered 12 more AH-64Ds in September 2003.

Singapore bought 20 AH-64Ds between 1999 and 2001.

In 2005, Kuwait purchased 16 AH-64Ds.

On August 26, 2013, Indonesia and the U.S. agreed on a contract for eight AH-64E Apaches. The first was shown in October 2017. The first batch of AH-64s for the Indonesian Army arrived in Indonesia in December 2017.

Japan ordered 50 AH-64Ds. These were built under license by Fuji Heavy Industries and called "AH-64DJP". The first was delivered to the JGSDF in 2006. The order stopped after 13 aircraft because of the high cost. One was destroyed in a crash in February 2018, killing both crew members.

In June 2011, Taiwan agreed to buy 30 AH-64Es. On November 5, 2013, Taiwan received the first six. In April 2014, a Taiwanese AH-64E crashed into a building during a training flight in bad weather. This was the first AH-64E to be lost. The investigation found that the pilots flew too low in clouds without checking their instruments.

In 2009, South Korea showed interest in the Apache. In September 2012, the U.S. Congress was told about a possible sale of 36 AH-64E helicopters. In April 2013, South Korea announced plans to buy 36 AH-64Es. The first four were delivered in May 2016. All 36 were in use by January 2017.

Future Apache Users

Iraq asked to buy 24 AH-64s in April 2013. The sale was approved in January 2014. However, the Iraqi government did not accept the offer.

In July 2012, Qatar asked to buy 24 AH-64Es. The sale was approved in March 2014. In March 2019, Qatar received its first AH-64Es.

In July 2016, the UK ordered 50 AH-64Es from the U.S. instead of upgrading its older WAH-64s.

In July 2019, Australia started looking for new attack helicopters. In January 2021, Australia announced it had chosen the AH-64E to replace its current helicopters. They plan to get 29 AH-64Es.

In November 2019, the U.S. State Department approved a possible sale of 24 AH-64Es to Morocco. Morocco can also buy 12 more if needed.

In April 2020, the U.S. approved a possible sale to the Philippines. They could buy either six AH-1Z attack helicopters or six AH-64Es.

In April 2022, Poland chose between the AH-64E and the Bell AH-1Z Viper. On September 8, 2022, Poland announced that the AH-64E had won. They plan to buy 96 helicopters.

Apache Versions

AH-64A: The Original Apache

The AH-64A is the first version of the attack helicopter. The two crew members sit one behind the other in an armored area. It has two GE T700 engines. The A-model used the -701 engine until 1990. Then, it switched to the more powerful -701C engine.

U.S. Army AH-64As are being changed into AH-64Ds. The last AH-64A was taken out of service in July 2012 to be converted. In September 2012, Boeing received a contract to change the last 16 AH-64As into the AH-64D Block II version.

AH-64B: A Proposed Upgrade

In 1991, after the Gulf War, an upgrade called the AH-64B was suggested for 254 AH-64As. This upgrade would have included new rotor blades, a Global Positioning System (GPS), and better navigation and radio systems. But the B program was canceled in 1992. However, many of the radio, navigation, and GPS changes were later added to most AH-64As through other upgrades.

AH-64C: Another Idea That Changed

More money from Congress in late 1991 led to a plan to upgrade AH-64As to an AH-64B+ version. This plan changed again to upgrade them to AH-64C. This version would have almost all the changes of the AH-64D, except for the radar on top of the rotor and newer engines. But the C name was dropped after 1993. Since the radar could be moved between aircraft, both versions were simply called AH-64D.

AH-64D: The Longbow Apache

The AH-64D Apache Longbow has a modern digital cockpit and advanced sensors. The most noticeable part is the AN/APG-78 Longbow radar system. This radar is in a dome above the main rotor. Its high position allows the helicopter to find targets while hiding behind hills or buildings. The AN/APG-78 can track up to 128 targets at once and attack up to 16. It can start an attack within 30 seconds. A radio system lets the Apache share target information with ground units and other Apaches. This means one helicopter can find targets, and others can fire on them.

This helicopter is powered by two upgraded T700-GE-701C engines. The front part of the helicopter was made bigger to fit new systems. These systems improve its ability to survive, navigate, and communicate. In February 2003, the first Block II Apache was delivered to the U.S. Army. It had improved digital communication systems. The Japanese Apache AH-64DJP version is based on the AH-64D. It can carry AIM-92 Stinger air-to-air missiles for self-defense.

AH-64E: The Guardian Apache

This version was first called AH-64D Block III. In 2012, it was renamed AH-64E Guardian. It has better digital connections and more powerful T700-GE-701D engines. It can also control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones. It can fly fully by instruments, and has improved landing gear. New composite rotor blades make it faster, climb better, and carry more weight. Deliveries started in November 2011. By April 2020, 500 AH-64Es had been delivered.

Later versions of the AH-64E will have systems to help pilots make decisions. They will also have new self-checking abilities. The updated Longbow radar can see over the sea, which could allow it to attack ships. It will have a new data link to communicate with all Army drones. The AH-64E is also designed to be used in naval operations. The U.S. Army is interested in extra fuel tanks for longer flights.

AH-64F: A Future Idea

In 2014, Boeing thought about another Apache upgrade, called the AH-64F. This version would be faster with new engines and have retractable landing gear. It would also have small wings to help with lift and a tail rotor that could turn to push it forward. However, in 2016, the Army decided not to pursue this upgrade. Instead, they will focus on funding a new type of aircraft to replace the Apache by 2040.

Compound Apache: A Test Design

In October 2018, Boeing started testing a Compound Apache design. This version added a larger fixed wing and a pusher propeller to the Apache. The engine exhaust was also redirected downwards. These changes were expected to make it faster, fly further, carry more, and use less fuel. A small model was tested in a wind tunnel in January 2019. The Compound Apache was suggested as a temporary replacement before the new Future Vertical Lift aircraft arrives.

Sea Apache: For Naval Use

In the 1980s, naval versions of the AH-64A were considered for the United States Marine Corps and Navy. Different designs were looked at, with changed landing gear and improved systems. The Marines tested the Apache in September 1981, including operations from ships. But money for a naval version was not provided. The Marines continued to use the AH-1.

The Canadian Forces Maritime Command also looked at naval Apaches. In 2004, British Army Apaches were tested on the Royal Navy's HMS Ocean, a helicopter carrier. This was to see if they could operate from ships. The U.S. was interested in these tests. During the 2011 military intervention in Libya, the British Army used Apaches extensively from HMS Ocean. In 2013, U.S. AH-64Ds were tested on several U.S. Navy ships.

Export Apaches: For Other Countries

Several Apache models have been made for export to other countries. The British-built AgustaWestland Apache is based on the AH-64D. But it has different systems, including more powerful engines and folding rotor blades. These changes help it operate from Royal Navy ships.

Block Modifications: Upgrades in Groups

When a helicopter's design or role changes a lot, its name might change (like from AH-64D to AH-64E). But helicopters also get "block modifications." This means many equipment changes are grouped together. All the changes in a "block" are done to the helicopter at the same time.

Who Uses the Apache?

 Egypt

• Egyptian Air Force – 46 AH-64Ds

 Greece

• Hellenic Army – 28 AH-64A/Ds

 India

• Indian Air Force – 22 AH-64Es
• Indian Army – 6 AH-64Es on order

 Indonesia

• Indonesian Army 8 AH-64Es

 Israel

• Israeli Air Force – 48 AH-64A/Ds

 Japan

• Japan Ground Self-Defense Force – 12 AH-64D. Japan plans to replace these with drones.

 Kuwait

• Kuwait Air Force – 24 AH-64Ds

 Morocco

• Royal Moroccan Air Force – 36 AH-64Es on order

 Netherlands

• Royal Netherlands Air Force – 28 AH-64Ds

 Qatar

• Qatar Emiri Air Force – 24 AH-64Es

 Saudi Arabia

• Royal Saudi Land Forces – 47 AH-64A/D/Es
• Saudi Arabia National Guard – 12 AH-64Es

 Singapore

• Republic of Singapore Air Force – 19 AH-64Ds

 South Korea

• Republic of Korea Army – 36 AH-64Es

 Taiwan (Republic of China)

• Republic of China Army – 29 AH-64Es

 United Arab Emirates

• United Arab Emirates Air Force – 28 AH-64D/Es

 United Kingdom

• British Army – 67 AgustaWestland Apaches

 United States

• United States Army – 819 AH-64D/Es

Apache Specifications (AH-64A/D)

Data from Jane's All the World's Aircraft 2000–2001, Jane's All the World's Aircraft 2010–2011, Apache AH-64 Boeing (McDonnell Douglas) 1976–2005

General characteristics

• Crew: 2 (pilot, and co-pilot/gunner)
• Length: 58 ft 2 in (17.73 m)
  
• Body length: 49 ft 5 in (15.06 m)
• Height: 12 ft 8 in (3.87 m)
• Empty weight: 11,387 lb (5,165 kg)
• Gross weight: 17,650 lb (8,006 kg)
• Max takeoff weight: 23,000 lb (10,433 kg)
• Powerplant: 2 × General Electric T700-GE-701 turboshaft engines, 1,690 shp (1,260 kW) each (upgraded to 1,890 shp (1,409 kW) T700-GE-701C for AH-64A/D from 1990)
• Main rotor diameter: 48 ft 0 in (14.63 m)
• Main rotor area: 1,908.5 sq ft (177.31 m²) 4-bladed main-rotor and 4-bladed tail-rotor
• Blade shape: root: HH-02; tip: NACA 64A006

Performance

• Maximum speed: 158 kn (182 mph; 293 km/h)
• Cruise speed: 143 kn (165 mph; 265 km/h)
• Never exceed speed: 197 kn (227 mph; 365 km/h)
• Range: 257 nmi (296 mi; 476 km) with Longbow radar mast
• Combat range: 260 nmi (299 mi; 482 km)
• Ferry range: 1,024 nmi (1,178 mi; 1,896 km)
• Service ceiling: 20,000 ft (6,100 m)
• Disk loading: 9.8 lb/sq ft (48 kg/m²)
• Power/mass: 0.18 hp/lb (0.30 kW/kg)

Armament

• Guns: 1× 30 mm (1.18  in) M230 Chain Gun with 1,200 rounds
• Hardpoints: Four weapon stations on the stub wings. Longbows also have a station on each wingtip for an AIM-92 Stinger twin missile pack.
• Rockets: Hydra 70 70 mm, CRV7 70 mm, and APKWS 70 mm air-to-ground rockets
• Missiles: Usually AGM-114 Hellfire variants; Air-to-Air Stinger (ATAS); AGM-65 Maverick and Spike missiles can also be carried.

Avionics

• Lockheed Martin/Northrop Grumman AN/APG-78 Longbow fire-control radar (Note: only on the AH-64D/E)

More About the Apache

See also

In Spanish: Boeing AH-64 Apache para niños

• Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center
• United States Army Aviation and Missile Command

Aircraft related to this one

• AgustaWestland Apache
• Bell YAH-63

Similar aircraft

• Agusta A129 Mangusta
• Bell AH-1 SuperCobra
• Bell AH-1Z Viper
• CAIC Z-10
• Denel Rooivalk
• Eurocopter Tiger
• HAL Prachand
• Harbin WZ-19
• IAIO Toufan
• Kamov Ka-50
• Mil Mi-24
• Mil Mi-28
• Panha 2091
• TAI/AgustaWestland T129

Lists related to this aircraft

• List of active United States military aircraft
• List of aviation shootdowns and accidents during the Iraq War
• List of rotorcraft