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AH-64 Apache
A US Army AH-64D Apache from 101st Aviation Regiment in Iraq
Role Attack helicopter
National origin United States
Manufacturer Hughes Helicopters
McDonnell Douglas
Boeing Defense, Space & Security
First flight 30 September 1975[1]
Introduced 1984[2]
Status Active service
Primary users United States Army
Israel Air Force
Royal Netherlands Air Force
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force
Produced 1983–present
Number built 1,174 as of February 2010[3]
Unit cost US$18 million (1996)[4]
Variants AgustaWestland Apache

The AH-64 Apache is a four-blade, twin-engine attack helicopter with reverse-tricycle landing gear arrangement, and tandem cockpit for a crew of two. The Apache was developed as Model 77 by Hughes Helicopters for the United States Army's Advanced Attack Helicopter program to replace the AH-1 Cobra. First flown on 30 September 1975, the AH-64 features a nose-mounted sensor suite for target acquisition and night vision systems. The Apache is armed with a 30-millimeter (1.2 in) M230 Chain Gun carried between the main landing gear, under the aircraft's forward fuselage. The AH-64 also carries a mixture of AGM-114 Hellfire and Hydra 70 rocket pods on four hardpoints mounted on stub-wing pylons. The AH-64 also features double- and triple-redundant aircraft systems to improve survivability for the aircraft and crew in combat, as well as improved crash survivability for the pilots.

The U.S. Army selected the AH-64 over the Bell YAH-63 in 1976, awarding Hughes Helicopters a pre-production contract for two more aircraft. In 1982, the Army approved full production. McDonnell Douglas continued production and development after purchasing Hughes Helicopters from Summa Corporation in 1984. The first production AH-64D Apache Longbow, a greatly upgraded version of the original Apache, was delivered to the Army in March 1997. Presently, AH-64 production is continued by the Boeing Defense, Space & Security division; and over a thousand AH-64s have been produced so far.

The U.S. Army is the primary operator of the AH-64, however it has also become the primary attack helicopter of several nations it has been exported to, including the United Kingdom, Israel, Japan, and the Netherlands. U.S. AH-64s have served in conflicts in Panama, Persian Gulf War, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Israel has made active use of the Apache in its military conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza Strip; while several coalition allies have deployed their AH-64s in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Contents

Development

Advanced Attack Helicopter

Main article: Advanced Attack Helicopter

Following the cancellation of the AH-56 Cheyenne in 1972, in favor of United States Air Force and Marine Corps projects like the A-10 Thunderbolt II and Harrier Jump Jet, the United States Army sought an aircraft to fill an anti-armor attack role that would still be under Army command;[5][6] the 1948 Key West Agreement forbade the Army from owning fixed-wing aircraft. The Army wanted an aircraft better than the AH-1 Cobra in firepower, performance and range. It would have the maneuverability for terrain following nap-of-the-earth (NoE) flying.[7] To this end, the US Army issued a Request For Proposals (RFP) for an Advanced Attack Helicopter (AAH) on 15 November 1972.[8][9] As a sign of the important of this project, in September 1973 the Army designated their five most important projects, the "Big Five" with AAH included.[10]

A Hughes YAH-64A prototype

Proposals were submitted by five manufacturers: Bell, Boeing Vertol (teamed with Grumman), Hughes, Lockheed, and Sikorsky. In July 1973, the U.S. Department of Defense selected finalists Bell and Hughes Aircraft's Toolco Aircraft Division (later Hughes Helicopters). This began the phase 1 of the competition.[11] Each company built prototype helicopters and went through a flight test program. Hughes' Model 77/YAH-64A prototype first flew on 30 September 1975, while Bell's Model 409/YAH-63A prototype first flew on 1 October. After evaluating test results, the Army selected Hughes' YAH-64A over Bell's YAH-63A in 1976. Reasons for selecting the YAH-64A included its more damage tolerant four-blade main rotor and the instability of the YAH-63's tricycle landing gear arrangement.[12][13]

The AH-64A then entered phase 2 of the AAH program. This called for building three pre-production AH-64s, and upgrading the two YAH-64A flight prototypes and the ground test unit up to the same standard.[12] Weapons and sensor systems were integrated and tested during this time, including the new Hellfire missile.[14]

Into production

In 1981, three pre-production AH-64As were handed over to the US Army for Operational Test II. The Army testing was successful, but afterwards it was decided to upgrade to the more powerful T700-GE-701 version of engine, rated at 1,690 shp (1,259 kW). In late 1981, the AH-64 was named the Apache keeping with the Army's traditional use of American Indian tribal names for its helicopters and it was approved for full scale production in 1982.[15] In 1983, the first production helicopter was rolled out at Hughes Helicopter's facility at Mesa, Arizona. In 1984, Hughes Helicopters was purchased by McDonnell Douglas for $470 million.[16] The helicopter unit later became part of The Boeing Company with the merger of Boeing and McDonnell Douglas in August 1997.[17] In 1986, the incremental or flyaway cost for the AH-64A was US$7.03 million and the average unit cost was approximately US$13.9 million based on total costs.[16]

A YAH-64 in 1984

In the mid-1980s, McDonnell Douglas studied an improved "AH-64B" design with an updated cockpit, new fire control system and other upgrades. In 1988 funding was approved for a multi-stage upgrade program to improve sensor and weapon avionic systems and incorporate some digital systems.[18] However, improved technology was becoming available. It was decided to cancel the upgrade program for more ambitious changes. This would lead to the more advanced AH-64D Apache Longbow. Development of the AH-64D was approved by the Defense Acquisition Board in August 1990. The first AH-64D Apache Longbow prototype was flown on 15 April 1992,[19] and testing of the prototypes ended in April 1995 after they had significantly outperformed the AH-64A model.[20][21] On 13 October 1995 full-scale production of the Apache Longbow was approved[22] and a $1.9 billion five year contract was signed in August 1996 to upgrade and rebuild 232 existing AH-64 Apaches.[23] The first production AH-64D flew on 17 March 1997 and was delivered on 31 March 1997.[24] The cost of the AH-64D program totaled US$11 billion through 2007.[25]

Design

The Apache has a four-blade main rotor and a four-blade tail rotor.[26] The crew sits in tandem, with the pilot sitting behind and above the copilot-gunner. The crew compartment and fuel tanks are armored such that the aircraft will remain flyable even after sustaining hits from 23-millimeter (0.91 in) gunfire.[27]

Apache
version		 Engine version Engine power
AH-64A General Electric T700-701 1,696 shp (1,265 kW)
AH-64A+/D General Electric T700-701C 1,890 shp (1,410 kW)
AH-64D Block III General Electric T700-701D 2,000 shp (1,500 kW)
WAH-64D Rolls-Royce Turbomeca RTM322 2,100 shp (1,566 kW)

The AH-64 is powered by two General Electric T700 turboshaft engines with high-mounted exhausts on either side of the fuselage.[28][29] Various models of engines have been used on the Apache, those in British service use engines from Rolls-Royce instead of General Electric. In 2004, General Electric Aviation began producing more powerful T700-GE-701D engines, rated at 2,000 shp (1,500 kW) for AH-64Ds.[30]

One of the revolutionary features at the introduction of the Apache was its helmet mounted display, the Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS);[31][32] among other abilities the gunner can slave the helicopter's 30 mm automatic M230 Chain Gun to his helmet, making the gun track head movements to point at where he looks. The M230 can be alternatively fixed to a locked forward firing position, or controlled via the Target Acquisition and Designation System (TADS).[4][33]

The AH-64 is designed to endure front-line environments and to operate during the day or night and in adverse weather using avionics,[34] such as the Target Acquisition and Designation System, Pilot Night Vision System (TADS/PNVS), passive infrared countermeasures,[35] GPS, and the IHADSS.[4][34] A newer system that is replacing TADS/PNVS is Arrowhead; it is manufactured by Lockheed Martin, a contract was made on 17 February 2005 to begin equipping all models of American Apaches.[36]

Mission[26] 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 is adaptable to numerous different roles within its context as close air support (CAS), and has a customizable weapons loadout for the role desired.[26] In addition to the 30-mm M230 Chain Gun, the Apache carries a range of external stores on its stub-wing pylons, typically a mixture of AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles, and Hydra 70 general-purpose unguided 70 mm (2.76 in) rockets.[37] The Stinger and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles and the AGM-122 Sidearm anti-radiation missile were evaluated beginning in the late 1980s.[38][39] The Stinger was initially selected over the AIM-9, but the US Army is considering the Starstreak air-to-air missile instead.[3][38] In case of emergency the pylons also have mounting points for personnel transfer, though the mounting points are normally used for ground helicopter maintenance.[40] External fuel tanks can also be carried by the pylons to increase range and mission time.[26]

Operational history

United States Army

AH-64A at Forward Operating Base Speicher, Iraq in 2005

Army units began converting to the Apache in 1986 and first deployed to Europe in 1987. They took part in large military exercises there after arriving.[41] The helicopter was first used in combat in 1989, during Operation Just Cause, the invasion of Panama. The AH-64 participated in over 240 hours of combat attacking various targets mostly at night.[42][43]

During Operation Desert Storm on 17 January 1991, eight AH-64As guided by four MH-53 Pave Low IIIs, were used to destroy a portion of the Iraqi radar network.[44] This was the first attack of Desert Storm and it allowed attack aircraft into Iraq without detection.[45] The Apaches carried an asymmetric load of Hydra 70 flechette rockets, Hellfires, and one auxiliary fuel tank each.[46] During the 100-hour ground war a total of 277 AH-64s took part, destroying over 500 tanks, numerous armored personnel carriers and other Iraqi vehicles during Operation Desert Storm.[44][47]

The AH-64 played roles in the Balkans during separate conflicts in Bosnia and Kosovo in the 1990s.[48][49] During these deployments the Apache encountered problems such as deficiencies in training, night vision equipment, fuel tanks, and survivability.[50][51] On 27 April 1999 an Apache crashed during training in Albania due to a failure with the tail rotor,[52] causing the entire fleet in the Balkans to be grounded in December 2000.[53] Major General Dick Cody, commanding officer of the 101st Airborne at the time, wrote a strongly worded memo to the US Army Chief of Staff about the failures in training and equipment.[54]

AH-64D over Taji, Iraq 2006

The AH-64 took part in invasion of Iraq in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom.[55] In one engagement on 24 March 2003, 31 Apaches were damaged, and one Apache crashed and was captured by Iraqi troops near Karbala.[56] The intended attack against an armored brigade of the Iraqi Republican Guard's Medina Division was unsuccessful; US officials claimed this was due to the tank crews having set up a "flak trap" amongst terrain and employing their guns to good effect.[57][58] Iraqi officials claimed a farmer with a Brno rifle shot down the Apache,[59] however the farmer denied involvement.[60] The helicopter came down intact, and both the pilot and co-pilot were captured.[57] The AH-64 was destroyed via air strike the following day.[61][62]

The U.S. Apaches have been serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan from 2001.[63] American AH-64Ds are flying in Iraq and Afghanistan without the Longbow Fire Control Radar as there are no armored threats to be dealt with.[64] The majority of Apache helicopters that have taken heavy combat damage have been able to continue their assigned missions and return safely.[58] In 2006, an Apache helicopter was downed by a Soviet-made Strela 2 (SA-7) in Iraq. The Apache is able to typically withstand such hits, however in this instance it did not.[65] As of 2009, twelve Apache helicopters were shot down by enemy fire during the Iraq War.

Israel

Israeli Air Force AH-64D Saraph

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) first received AH-64As in 1990,[66] for a total fleet of 42.[67] There was some controversy over the Air Force's choice to purchase Apaches over upgrading existing AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters.[68] In 2000 Israel examined the prospect of acquiring up to 48 Apache AH-64Ds, but US reluctance to share military source codes for the software complicated the deal.[67] A prospective sale of six AH-64Ds to Israel in 2009 was blocked because of US government concerns that the helicopters may pose a threat to civilian Palestinians.[69] In IAF service, the AH-64A is named Peten (Hebrew: פתן‎, English: python), and the AH-64D is known as Saraph (Hebrew: נָחָשׁ‎, English: serpent).[66][70]

The AH-64A was used frequently during the 1990s to attack and destroy Hezbollah outposts in Lebanon,[71][72][73] attacking in many weather conditions — day and night. During the al-Aqsa Intifada in 2000, the IAF used the AH-64 to kill senior Hamas figures, such as Ahmed Yassin and Adnan al-Ghoul, with guided missiles.[74][75] During the morning of 24 May 2001, a private owned Lebanese-registered Cessna 152 flew into Israeli airspace and was intercepted by two Israeli AH-64s, one of which shot down the Cessna with an AGM-114 Hellfire missile, killing the pilot.[76][77] IAF Apaches played a significant role in Israeli air cover during the 2006 Lebanon War.[78][79]

There have also been accidents involving the Apache helicopter in Israeli service. During the Lebanon War in 2006, two IAF AH-64A helicopters collided, killing one pilot and wounding three, all critically.[80] In another incident in the conflict, an IAF AH-64D crashed, killing the two crew, due to a malfunction in the main rotor.[81] This caused the Israel Air Force to refuse to accept further deliveries of AH-64Ds while in dispute with Boeing over the craft's performance envelope.[70]

United Kingdom

UK Army Air Corps Westland WAH-64D Apache Longbow displays at a UK airshow
Main article: AgustaWestland Apache

The UK operates a modified version of the Apache Longbow initially called the Westland WAH-64 Apache, and is designated Apache AH1 by the British Army. Westland built 67 WAH-64 Apaches under license from Boeing,[82] following a competition between the Eurocopter Tiger and the Apache for the British Army's new Attack Helicopter in 1995.[83][84] Important deviations made by AgustaWestland from the US variants of the Apache include replacing the engines with more powerful Rolls-Royce units,[85] and the addition of a folding blade assembly for naval use;[86] allowing British Apaches to operate from Royal Navy warships and auxiliaries.

Before its introduction into service in 2004, several problem were noted, including lacking the ability to securely communicate with other helicopters and a risk of damage to the tail rotor upon use of the Hellfire missiles;[87][88] the latter problem having been corrected as Hellfires are now routinely carried and used by Apaches in British service. The Apache AH1s have been regularly deployed to Afghanistan, in support of UK and Coalition forces in the south of the country.[89][90] British Apaches routinely use the Longbow Fire Control Radar in Afghanistan, stating that it improves situational awareness and avoidance of other aircraft during tactical maneuvers.[91]

The Netherlands

Royal Netherlands Air Force AH-64D at the Farnborough Airshow, 2006

The Dutch government initially showed an interest in acquiring Apache helicopters in the late 1980s, where it stated that it may purchase as many as 52.[92] A competition held in 1994 against the Eurocopter Tiger and the AH-1 SuperCobra led to the Royal Netherlands Air Force ordering 30 AH-64D Apaches in 1995.[93][94][95] Construction for the order started in December 1997, deliveries began in 1999.[96][97] The Apaches of the RNLAF are equipped with the Apache Modular Aircraft Survivability Equipment (AMASE) system. The AMASE is an advanced Electronic Warfare self-protection system against Infra-Red (IR) missile threats.[98][99]

The RNLAF Apaches' first deployment was in 2001 to Djibouti, Africa.[100] They were also deployed alongside US AH-64s in support of NATO peacekeeping forces in Bosnia and Herzegovina.[101] In 2004, six Dutch AH-64s were deployed as part of the Netherlands contribution to Multinational force in Iraq to support the Dutch ground forces.[102] The Apaches performed close combat support and display of force missions, along with providing reconnaissance information to ground forces. In February 2006, the Netherlands contribution to NATO forces in Afghanistan was increased from 600 to 1,400 troops and 6 AH-64s were sent in support.[103]

Shortly after Apaches were deployed to Kabul airport as part of the Netherlands contribution to ISAF, on 10 April 2004 a pair of Dutch Apaches came under light gunfire close to the Afghan capital.[104] On 17 December 2007, a RNLAF Apache flew into powerlines during a night flying exercise in the Netherlands, forcing an emergency landing and causing a lengthy blackout in the region.[105]

Other and future users

The United Arab Emirates purchased 30 AH-64A helicopters in 1991 and 1994,[106] which they are now upgrading to AH-64D specification.[107] In 2005 Kuwait purchased 16 Longbow helicopters.[108] Other countries with the Apache include Egypt and Saudi Arabia.[109] In September 2003, Greece ordered 12 AH-64D in addition to existing fleet of 20 AH-64A+.[110] Singapore purchased a total of 20 AH-64D Longbow Apache aircraft in two batches between 1999 and 2001.[111] Japan has ordered a total of 50 AH-64Ds,[112] which are being built under license by Fuji Heavy Industries. The first helicopter was delivered to the JGSDF in early 2006;[113] these Fuji-made AH-64Ds are designated "AH-64DJP".[114]

The Apache Longbow is one of several types competing for the Indian Air Force order for 22 attack helicopters. Boeing had backed out of the competition in October 2008,[115] but submitted an Apache proposal in October 2009.[116][117] South Korea is also interested in acquiring Apache attack helicopters, perhaps as early as by 2012.[118] This move may be in response to plans made by the US to withdraw many of their own Apaches from South Korea.[119] As of August 2009 the purchase remains uncertain, due to considerations of alternative aircraft.[120]

Variants

AH-64A

IAF AH-64A Peten

The AH-64A is the original production attack helicopter. The crew sit in tandem in an armored compartment. It is powered by two GE T700 turbo-shaft engines. The A-model was equipped with the -701 engine version until 1990 when the engines were switched to the more powerful -701C version.[121]

The Japanese Apache variant is based on the AH-64A.[4] Japan's AH-64DJP variant can also be equipped with the AIM-92 Stinger air-to-air missiles for defense.[122][123]

AH-64B

In 1991 after Operation Desert Storm, the AH-64B was a proposed upgrade to 254 AH-64As. The upgrade would have included new rotor blades, a Global Positioning System (GPS), improved navigation systems and new radios. Congress approved US$82 million to begin the Apache B upgrade. The B program was canceled in 1992.[124] The radio, navigation, and GPS modifications, were later installed on most A-model Apaches through other upgrades.

AH-64C

Additional funding from Congress in late 1991 resulted in a program to upgrade AH-64As to an AH-64B+ version. More funding changed the plan to upgrade to AH-64C. The C upgrade would include all changes to be included in the Longbow except for mast mounted radar and newer engines. However, after 1993 the C designation was dropped.[125]

The upgrades would go forward. The only difference between the C model and the radar-equipped D model was the radar, which could be moved from one aircraft to another. The version without the radar mast is known as AH-64D Apache, and the radar-equipped version is known as AH-64D Apache Longbow.[125]

AH-64D

Republic of Singapore Air Force AH-64D on static display during open house

The advanced model, the AH-64D Apache Longbow, is equipped with an improved sensor suite, glass cockpit, and weapon systems. The key improvement over the A-variant is the AN/APG-78 Longbow dome installed over the main rotor which houses a millimeter-wave Fire Control Radar (FCR) target acquisition system as well as the Radar Frequency Interferometer (RFI).[126] The elevated position of the radome allows detection and (arching) missile engagement of targets even when the helicopter itself is concealed by an obstacle (e.g. terrain, trees or buildings). Further, a radio modem integrated with the sensor suite allows a D-variant Apache to share targeting data with other AH-64Ds that do not have a target within their own line-of-sight. In this manner a group of Apaches can engage multiple targets revealed only by the radome of a single helicopter,[127] exposing less risk to the group as they can remain hidden.

The aircraft is powered by a pair of uprated T700-GE-701C engines, and has a fully-integrated cockpit. The forward fuselage of the aircraft was expanded to accommodate new systems. In addition, the aircraft receives improved survivability, communications, and navigation capabilities. The first of the upgraded Block II Apaches was delivered to the US Army in February 2003. Block II includes upgrades to the digital communications systems to improve communications within the 'tactical internet'.[128]

Block III improvements, slated for 2008 onwards, include increasing digitization, the joint tactical radio system, enhanced engines and drive systems, capability to control UAVs, new composite rotor blade and landing gear upgrades.[128] The new blades, which successfully completed flight testing in May 2004, increase the Apache's cruise speed, climb rate and payload capability.[129]

Export Apaches

A number of other models have been derived from both AH-64A and AH-64D for export. The British-built AgustaWestland Apache (assembled from kits purchased from Boeing) is based on the AH-64D with several different systems, including more powerful engines and modifications towards naval usage.

Sea Apache

Naval versions of the AH-64A for the United States Marine Corps and Navy were examined from 1984 to 1987.[130][131] The Canadian Forces Maritime Command also examined the prospect of using a modified Apache in naval service.[132] Multiple concepts were studied with altered landing gear arrangements, improved avionics and weapons.[130] Funding for the naval version was not provided, the Marine Corps continues to use the AH-1 SuperCobra.[133] The US expressed interest in trials onboard HMS Ocean to test the suitability of the AgustaWestland Apache used by the British Army.[86]

Operators

World map of military operators of the AH-64 Apache. Red: current military operators; Orange: potential military operators.
JGSDF AH-64D
 Egypt
 Greece
  • Hellenic Army received 20 AH-64As in 1995 and ordered 12 AH-64Ds in 2003.[112] Has 20 AH-64A and 12 AH-64D helicopters in service as of January 2010.[136]
 Israel
 Japan
 Kuwait
 Netherlands
 Republic of China (Taiwan)
 Saudi Arabia
 Singapore
 United Arab Emirates
 United Kingdom
 United States

Specifications (AH-64A/D)

McDONNELL DOUGLAS AH-64 APACHE.png
Weapon loadout of the AH-64 Apache

Data from Jane's Information Group,[4] Apache AH-64[140]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 2 (pilot, and co-pilot/gunner)
  • Length: 58.17 ft (17.73 m) (with both rotors turning)
  • Rotor diameter: 48 ft 0 in (14.63 m)
  • Height: 12.7 ft (3.87 m)
  • Disc area: 1,809.5 ft² (168.11 m²)
  • Empty weight: 11,387 lb (5,165 kg)
  • Loaded weight: 17,650 lb (8,000 kg)
  • Max takeoff weight: 23,000 lb (10,433 kg)
  • Powerplant: 2× General Electric T700-GE-701 and later upgraded to T700-GE-701C (1990-present) & T700-GE-701D (AH-64D block III) turboshafts, -701: 1,690 shp, -701C: 1,890 shp, -701D: 2,000 shp (-701: 1,260 kW, -701C: 1,490 kW, -701D: 1,490 kW) each
  • Fuselage length: 49 ft 5 in (15.06 m)
  • Rotor systems: 4 blade main rotor, 4 blade tail rotor in non-orthogonal alignment

Performance

Armament

Notable appearances in media

Main article: Aircraft in fiction#AH-64_Apache

See also

Related development

Comparable aircraft

Related lists

References

Notes
  1. ^ "Boeing Marks 25th Anniversary of Apache First Flight Sept. 30". Boeing. 2 October 2000. http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2000/news_release_001002n.htm. 
  2. ^ "Top 10: Helicopters - AH-64D Apache". Discovery Channel. youtube.com. 8 May 2007. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxCVfpeuCOE&feature=related. 
  3. ^ a b "Boeing AH-64 Apache". Jane's All the World's Aircraft. Jane's Information Group, 2010. subscription article, 1 February 2010.
  4. ^ a b c d e "Boeing AH-64 Apache". Jane's Information Group. 13 October 2000. http://www.janes.com/defence/air_forces/news/jawa/jawa001013_1_n.shtml. 
  5. ^ "Army Cancels Helicopter Contract". Victoria Advocate. 10 August 1972. http://news.google.co.uk/newspapers?id=clIdAAAAIBAJ&sjid=9loEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6998,1369965&dq=advanced+attack+helicopter&hl=en. 
  6. ^ "Army Decides To Scrap Cheyenne Helicopter Gunship". Boca Raton News. 3 September 1972. http://news.google.co.uk/newspapers?id=j8kPAAAAIBAJ&sjid=No0DAAAAIBAJ&pg=5294,127450&dq=advanced+attack+helicopter&hl=en. 
  7. ^ Bishop 2005, pp. 5–6.
  8. ^ OAVCSA 1973, p. 10.
  9. ^ "Army Seeking Bids On New Helicopter". New York Times. 16 November 1972. http://select.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=F0091FFD3D55137B93C4A8178AD95F468785F9. 
  10. ^ "New Army Tactic". Reading Eagle. 11 September 1973. http://news.google.co.uk/newspapers?id=H64hAAAAIBAJ&sjid=hpoFAAAAIBAJ&pg=1762,200656&dq=advanced+attack+helicopter&hl=en. 
  11. ^ Bishop 2005, p. 7.
  12. ^ a b Richardson and Peacock 1992, p. 8.
  13. ^ Donald 2004, p. 114.
  14. ^ Bishop 2005, p. 8.
  15. ^ Bishop 2005, pp. 8–9.
  16. ^ a b Donald 2004, p. 119.
  17. ^ Wilson, Cynthia; Dale Singer (13 January 2004). "McDonnell-Boeing Merger". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/special/pd125.nsf/0/0EC17704770E83BF86256E04006C5943?OpenDocument. 
  18. ^ "Helicopter Contract Awarded". Prescott Courier. 17 August 1988. http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=CV8dAAAAIBAJ&sjid=YVwEAAAAIBAJ&pg=2415,4145645&dq=ah-64+apache&hl=en. 
  19. ^ Donald 2004, pp. 150–153.
  20. ^ Foote, Sheila (4 April 1995). "DOD Halts Apache Longbow Tests Early". Defense Daily. http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-16790134/dod-halts-apache-longbow.html. 
  21. ^ Donald 2004, pp. 156–158.
  22. ^ Foote, Sheila (16 October 1995). "DoD Approves Production Of Longbow Apache Attack Helicopter". Defense Daily. http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-17609179/dod-approves-production-longbow.html. 
  23. ^ Caires, Greg (19 August 1996). "Army Inks $1.9 Billion AH-64D Apache Deal". Defense Daily. http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-18589330/army-inks-1-9.html. 
  24. ^ Eden, Paul, ed. "Boeing AH-64 Apache". Encyclopedia of Modern Military Aircraft. Amber Books, 2004. ISBN 1904687849.
  25. ^ "AH-64D Apache Longbow". Deagel.com. http://www.deagel.com/Combat-Helicopters/AH-64D-Apache-Longbow_a000519003.aspx. Retrieved 2010-01-28. 
  26. ^ a b c d Hudson, Joel B. (2 April 1997). "Attack Helicopter Operations" (PDF). Department of the Army. p. 166. http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/docs/1-112.pdf. 
  27. ^ Donald 2004, p. 110.
  28. ^ Donald 2004, pp. 111–112.
  29. ^ "GE says T700 operating well in Gulf". Defense Daily. 20 December 1990. http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-9295562/ge-says-t700-operating.html. 
  30. ^ "T700-GE-701D Engine Awarded U.S. Army Qualification". GE Aviation. 4 November 2004. http://www.geae.com/aboutgeae/presscenter/military/military_20041104.html. 
  31. ^ Rash, Clarence E.; Martin, John S. (August 1988). The Impact of the U.S. Army's AH-64 Helmet Mounted Display on Future Aviation Helmet Design. Army Aeromedical Research Lab Fort Rucker. http://oai.dtic.mil/oai/oai?verb=getRecord&metadataPrefix=html&identifier=ADA202984. 
  32. ^ Casey, Curtis J. (5 August 2002). Emergence Of Solid State Helmet-Mounted Displays In Military Applications. SPIE. http://spie.org/x648.html?product_id=478896. 
  33. ^ "Boeing To Develop Electric Gun Turret For The AH-64D". Boeing. 5 May 1999. http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/1999/news_release_990504n.htm. 
  34. ^ a b Harris, Tom. "How Apache Helicopters Work: Apache Sensors". howstuffworks.com. http://science.howstuffworks.com/apache-helicopter5.htm. Retrieved 2010-02-02. 
  35. ^ Richardson and Peacock 1992, pp. 26–31.
  36. ^ "$262.4M In Arrowheads For Apaches". Defense Daily. 2 May 2005. http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2624m-in-arrowheads-for-apaches-0442/. 
  37. ^ Donald 2004, pp. 124–127.
  38. ^ a b Donald 2004, pp. 134–135.
  39. ^ Richardson and Peacock 1992, pp. 40–41, 60.
  40. ^ "Helicopter rescue bid for Marine". BBC News. 17 January 2007. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6269613.stm. 
  41. ^ Richardson and Peacock 1992, 47–48.
  42. ^ Richardson and Peacock 1992, 51–52.
  43. ^ Bishop 2005, pp. 16–17.
  44. ^ a b Bishop 2005, pp. 17–18.
  45. ^ Donald 2004, pp. 144–145.
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Bibliography
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  • Bishop, Chris. Apache AH-64 Boeing (McDonnell Douglas) 1976–2005. Osprey Publishing, 2005. ISBN 1-84176-816-2.
  • Donald, David. "AH-64A/D Apache and AH-64D Longbow Apache". Modern Battlefield Warplanes. AIRtime Publishing Inc, 2004. ISBN 1-880588-76-5.
  • Government Accounting Office. Staff Study: Advanced Attack Helicopter. Washington, D.C.: US Government Accounting Office, 1974.
  • Office of the Assistant Vice Chief of Staff of the Army (OAVCSA). An Abridged History of the Army Attack Helicopter Program. Washington, DC: Department of the Army. 1973.
  • Richardson, Doug and Lindsay Peacock. Combat Aircraft AH-64. London: Salamander Books, 1992. ISBN 0-86101-675-0.

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Simple English

File:AH-64
An AH-64
File:AH-64
Missiles and rockets on an AH-64
File:AH-64D
The AH-64's gun

The AH-64 Apache is an attack helicopter that first flew in 1975 and has been produced since 1984. It was designed by Hughes Helicopters, but that later became McDonnell Douglas, which later became Boeing. It is designed to attack things on the ground to help soldiers. To do this, it can carry 16 AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, along with rocket pods, and a 30mm chain gun that can fire 625 rounds per minute. It can carry 1,200 bullets. It can also carry missiles like the AIM-9 Sidewinder to shoot down things in the air if it is attacked by fighter aircraft or other helicopters [1][2].

Contents

AH-64 details

The AH-64 is 49.11 feet (14.97 meters) long, 17.16 feet (5.23 meters) wide, and 16.24 feet (4.95 meters) tall. Without anything, it weighs 11,799 pounds (5,352 kilograms). Full, it weighs 22,282 pounds (10,107 kilograms). It is powered by 2 General Electric T700-GE-701C engines. It can go 162 miles per hour (261 kilometers per hour), can fly 1,181 miles (1,900 kilometers) without refueling, can fly 9,478 feet (2,889 meters) high, and can climb 2,415 feet a minute (736 meters a minute) [3].

The AH-64's users

The AH-64 has been used by the United States. It was first used in Operation Just Cause. It has also been used by Israel, Japan, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Kuwait, Greece, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Singapore [4].

Concept and Building History

The need of a new and highly secure helicopter was first felt in the beginning of the 1990s. The great military power, the British Army, identified this need and by February 1993 they finalised the need with an invitation to bid for the design, construction and trial of the new concept.

Among the bidding companies were: Boeing and Sikorsky with the RAH-66 Comanche, Agusta with the A129 Mangusta, British Aerospace and Eurocopter with the Tiger, GEC Marconi and Bell Helicopter the Cobra Venom, and Westland and McDonnell Douglas with the AH-64 Apache. The decision was taken later in July in 2005 and the winning aircraft builder was Westland and McDonnell Douglas with the Apache. One year later in 2006 the tow Parties signed a contract for 67 helicopters. This is how the WAH-64D Apache era started.

The 67 WAH-64D Apache attack helicopters were built by the merged companies Boeing and McDonnell Douglas (1997) and Westland between 1999 and 2004. The first aircraft was built by Boeing and delivered to the Army in March 1999, followed by the Westland, who built their first aircraft in 2000 and delivered in July 2000. The last aircraft was built and delivered in July 2004. [5].

References

  1. ↑ http://www.army-technology.com/projects/apache/
  2. ↑ http://www.faqs.org/docs/air/avah64.html
  3. ↑ http://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=29
  4. ↑ http://www.militaryaviation.eu/helicopter/Boeing/AH-64.htm
  5. ↑ http://www.armedforces-int.com/projects/wah_64d_apache_attack_helicopter.html
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