The Boeing AH-64 Apache is a multi-role attack helicopter used by the United States Army and other nations. It is designed to perform a variety of tasks, including anti-armor, anti-infantry, and reconnaissance missions. The Apache is known for its advanced technology and firepower, making it a formidable asset on the battlefield. With its development dating back to the 1970s, the AH-64 has undergone numerous upgrades and improvements over the years, resulting in the current AH-64E Apache, which is the most advanced variant of the aircraft.
Key Points
- The AH-64 Apache is a highly advanced, multi-role attack helicopter with a rich history of development and upgrades.
- It is equipped with advanced avionics, including the AN/APG-78 Longbow fire control radar and the AN/ASQ-170 targeting sight system.
- The Apache's primary armament consists of the 30mm M230 chain gun, as well as Hydra 70 rockets and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles.
- The AH-64E Apache features improved performance, increased firepower, and enhanced avionics compared to its predecessors.
- The aircraft has seen extensive combat use in various conflicts, including the Gulf War, Iraq War, and Afghanistan War.
Design and Development
The AH-64 Apache was first introduced in the 1980s, with the initial production model being the AH-64A. Since then, the aircraft has undergone significant upgrades, resulting in the AH-64D Longbow Apache and eventually the AH-64E Apache. The AH-64E features a number of improvements, including more powerful engines, improved avionics, and increased firepower. The aircraft’s design is centered around its ability to perform a variety of tasks, from anti-armor and anti-infantry missions to reconnaissance and escort duties.
Avionics and Firepower
The AH-64E Apache is equipped with advanced avionics, including the AN/APG-78 Longbow fire control radar and the AN/ASQ-170 targeting sight system. These systems provide the aircraft with enhanced targeting capabilities and improved situational awareness. The Apache’s primary armament consists of the 30mm M230 chain gun, which is capable of firing up to 650 rounds per minute. The aircraft can also be equipped with Hydra 70 rockets and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, providing it with a significant amount of firepower.
| Specifications | Values |
|---|---|
| Length | 17.7 meters (58.1 feet) |
| Rotary Diameter | 14.6 meters (47.9 feet) |
| Height | 3.9 meters (12.8 feet) |
| Empty Weight | 5,165 kilograms (11,382 pounds) |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 10,433 kilograms (23,000 pounds) |
| Engine | 2 x General Electric T700-GE-701C turboshaft engines |
| Power | 1,890 horsepower (1,410 kW) each |
| Maximum Speed | 293 kilometers per hour (182 miles per hour) |
| Cruise Speed | 269 kilometers per hour (167 miles per hour) |
| Range | 475 kilometers (296 miles) |
| Service Ceiling | 6,400 meters (20,997 feet) |
Operational History
The AH-64 Apache has seen extensive combat use in various conflicts, including the Gulf War, Iraq War, and Afghanistan War. The aircraft has proven itself to be highly effective in a variety of roles, from anti-armor and anti-infantry missions to reconnaissance and escort duties. The Apache’s advanced technology and firepower have made it a game-changer on the battlefield, allowing it to engage and destroy enemy targets with precision and accuracy.
Tactical Capabilities
The AH-64E Apache is highly maneuverable and can operate in a variety of environments, from urban areas to open terrain. The aircraft’s advanced avionics and targeting systems allow it to engage targets at long range, reducing the risk of enemy counterattack. The Apache’s firepower is also highly effective against a variety of targets, from armored vehicles to infantry positions.
The AH-64E Apache's tactical capabilities are further enhanced by its ability to operate at night and in adverse weather conditions. The aircraft's advanced sensors and targeting systems allow it to detect and engage targets in low-light conditions, making it a highly effective asset in a variety of scenarios.
What is the primary role of the AH-64 Apache?
+The primary role of the AH-64 Apache is as a multi-role attack helicopter, capable of performing anti-armor, anti-infantry, and reconnaissance missions.
What is the difference between the AH-64D and AH-64E Apache?
+The AH-64E Apache features improved performance, increased firepower, and enhanced avionics compared to the AH-64D Longbow Apache.
What is the range of the AH-64E Apache?
+The range of the AH-64E Apache is approximately 475 kilometers (296 miles).
What is the top speed of the AH-64E Apache?
+The top speed of the AH-64E Apache is approximately 293 kilometers per hour (182 miles per hour).
What is the primary armament of the AH-64E Apache?
+The primary armament of the AH-64E Apache is the 30mm M230 chain gun.
Meta Description: Learn about the Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopter, its design, development, avionics, firepower, and operational history, as well as its tactical capabilities and specifications.
