On Wednesday, February 26, the American company Boeing reported through its social media the delivery of three new AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to the British Army, marking the 45th, 46th, and 47th units of the planned 50-helicopter fleet. This delivery was carried out by a U.S. Air Force C-5 Galaxy transport aircraft, completing the transfer at RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk.
It is worth recalling that the contract for the acquisition of these 50 attack helicopters was signed by the UK Ministry of Defence in 2020 as part of the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. The agreement, valued at over $2.3 billion at the time of signing, also includes a 20-year support contract with Boeing’s UK subsidiary to provide technical maintenance for the AH-64E fleet, the most advanced variant of this platform.
Regarding the delivery schedule of these modern helicopters, the program is approaching its final stages, with completion expected within this year. The first two units were delivered from the U.S. in November 2020 to Wattisham Flying Station, and by early 2022, the British Army already had 14 AH-64Es for test flights and crew training. In 2023, the platform was declared to have reached initial operational capability. By 2024, London aimed to have its full fleet operational, moving toward achieving full operational capability by 2026. However, the timeline appears slightly delayed as three units are still pending delivery.
It should be noted that the purchase of these modern helicopters was intended to replace the Apache Mk.1 variant, which entered service with the British Army in 2001. The Mk.1 fleet has an extensive operational history, including missions in Libya and Afghanistan. According to the UK’s Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), parts from the retired Mk.1 helicopters are being recycled into the production of the new AH-64E models, reducing costs and improving environmental sustainability.
Finally, regarding the technical enhancements of the AH-64E, the platform features significant improvements in its transmission system and rotor blades, providing increased performance. Additionally, it incorporates upgraded detection sensors and communication systems, enhancing reconnaissance capabilities. The new variant also has the capability to operate alongside unmanned systems to further extend its effectiveness. In terms of armament, the AH-64E can carry up to 16 Hellfire missiles, 70 Hydra 70 mm rockets, and approximately 1,200 rounds for its 30 mm cannon.
Image credits: @BoeingUK on X
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