Army Likes Future Vertical Lift – Don’t Forget The Upgraded Apache Attack Helicopter to “Mass” Power

By Kris Osborn, President, Center for Military Modernization

(Washington DC) The U.S. Army’s AH-64 Apache attack helicopter was originally a 1980s platform, yet upgrades to the Apache have made it an almost entirely new platform well suited for a modern threat environment.

Apache pilots in Afghanistan spent many years flying upgraded AH-64E-model helicopters, which give the platform increased speed and performance.

In development for many years and now part of the operational force, the AH-64E models use a stronger 701D helicopter engine, composite rotor blades, and next-generation communications technology and avionics.

Army Apache pilots in Afghanistan also helped pioneer the early applications of manned-unmanned teaming wherein crews could control the flight path and sensor payload of nearby drones from the cockpit of the aircraft.

Helicopter pilots explained that this ability was paradigm-changing in that it enabled them to see targets and understand attack specifics before even taking off for a mission.

All branches of service now implement many of the cutting-edge manned-unmanned teaming tactics and technologies first used with Apache and Kiowa helicopter crews in Afghanistan.

Apache & FARA fly together

Many senior Army weapons developers and innovators believe an upgraded Apache is critical to the long-term readiness of Army aviation combat power, despite the fact that the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft Apache-type replacement program is progressing.