Australian Army Welcomes First Apache Attack Helicopters
The Australian Army has received its first two Boeing AH-64E Apache combat helicopters at RAAF Base Townsville in Queensland.
The aircraft were acquired through a US foreign military sale for 29 Apaches expected by 2029, all of which are to replace the service’s aging Tiger rotary-wing fleet.
The military will leverage the AH-64E’s advanced scouting, communications, and precision strike capabilities to support advancements in longer-range and coastal operations.
Australian Apache air and ground crews are now training in the United States and the United Kingdom to familiarize themselves with the new helicopters, with some already qualified to operate and maintain them.
“The AH-64E Apache provides a critical step change in attack aviation capability for the Australian Army and builds on the Albanese Government’s investments to improve the Australian Defence Force’s ability to operate from Australia’s northern bases,” Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles stated.
Jobs, Training, and Infrastructure
As part of the new fleet’s adoption, Boeing’s Australian arm will support the Apaches under a seven-year, 306-million Australian dollar ($202-million) contract covering sustainment, engineering, training, and logistics.
The deal is expected to create more than 240 jobs across Queensland, including 170 in Townsville.
Simultaneously, an aviation training academy will be opened in Townsville to offer courses for technicians of both Apache and Chinook helicopters, creating additional workforce opportunities.
The government has also earmarked 700 million Australian dollars ($462.2 million) in upgrades at RAAF Base Townsville to support the Apaches and relocate army aviation units from Darwin.
This infrastructure project is expected to generate 275 jobs in the region.
“The aircraft arrival is a major boost to Australia’s military capability and delivers new, skilled jobs at the cutting edge of aerospace,” said Amy List, managing director at Boeing Defence Australia.
The Apache AH-64E
The AH‑64E Apache, designed for precision strike missions, features advanced avionics, a next-generation defensive system, and a 30-millimeter chain gun.
The helicopter can also carry a range of multi-domain missiles, enhancing its frontline combat capability.
Powered by two General Electric T700 turboshaft engines, the Apache can reach speeds up to 300 kilometers (186 miles) per hour and has a range of 500 kilometers (311 miles).
The aircraft measures 18 meters (59 feet) in length, with a rotor diameter of 15 meters (49 feet).
With the Townsville handover, Australia became the 18th country to operate the Apache. The government’s units add to almost 1,300 Apaches currently in service globally.
