Australian Army AH-64E Apache Helicopters On The Way
The Australian Army is set to welcome a new addition to its aviation capability with the delivery of 4 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters expected to begin in late 2025. A total of 29 Apaches are scheduled for full delivery by 2029.
The acquisition of the 29 AH-64E Apaches, ordered under the LAND 4503 programme to gradually replace the ageing Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) Eurocopter Tiger fleet.
The AH-64E Apaches are produced with a number of Australian manufactured parts, with final assembly at Boeing’s Mesa, Arizona facility where more than 2,800 Apaches have been produced.
The Apaches offer mature, battle-proven systems with manned-unmanned teaming integration, with the enhanced information sharing capabilities and digital connectivity. These features are tailored to Australia’s evolving security environment.
(Via Department of Defence)
Major General Jeremy King, Head of Joint Aviation Systems Division praised the new acquisition: “the AH-64E Apache is the most contemporary and capable attack helicopter in the world”.
Production is advancing rapidly with the very first Australian Apache, designated AT001, undergoing structural, wiring, and mechanical installation ahead of planned flight-testing later in the year. Initial operating capability is set for 2026, reaching full operational capability by 2028.
The new fleet will be based with the 1st Aviation Regiment of the Australian Army, which is relocating from Robertson Barracks in Darwin to RAAF Base Townsville in North Queensland to form a dedicated helicopter hub alongside CH-47F Chinook units. The Australian Government has invested nearly $700 million in upgrading facilities at Townsville in support of this transformation.
In line with modern warfare trends, Australia is planning to operate its Apaches in close cooperation with armed drones, leveraging manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) capabilities to boost effectiveness in self-protection and battlefield surveillance.
(SSG Cayce Watson via Department of Defence)
The Australian Department of Defence’s procurement of the AH-64E Apaches indicates continuing alignment with the United States and aligned Indo-Pacific allies, adding another US-manufactured helicopter to its already US-dominated fleet of CH-47F Chinooks, UH-60M Black Hawks, and MH-60R Seahawk Romeos.