Australia prepares for arrival of new Boeing Apache helicopters amid regional tensions

Major General Jeremy King, Head of Joint Aviation Systems Division, stated: “The AH-64E Apache is the most contemporary and capable attack helicopter in the world… It allows us to continue to develop attack helicopter operations, armed reconnaissance helicopter operations, communications networking and, importantly, the ability to grow the teaming of crewed and uncrewed systems as we learn the lessons of modern warfare in the current environment.”

Globally recognized for its combat capabilities since its introduction in 1975, over 1,200 Apaches are currently operated by 18 countries. The AH-64E can carry up to 16 HELLFIRE missiles or 76 unguided rockets along with 1,200 rounds for its 30 mm chain gun. In comparison, the outgoing Tiger could carry fewer weapons.

Recent years have seen increased defense cooperation among Asia-Pacific nations—including Australia—with partners like South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, India, and especially the United States. This collaboration is partly driven by heightened military activity from China in areas such as Taiwan and Japanese airspace. Defense contracts like Australia's purchase of Apaches are intended to boost collective capability and interoperability among allied forces operating in this region (https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/jun/03/australian-army-to-get-us-made-apache-helicopters-in-4bn-deal).

Boeing maintains a steady production rate for Apache helicopters globally and expects production to continue until around 2032.

“The AH-64E Apache is the most contemporary and capable attack helicopter in the world… It allows us to continue to develop attack helicopter operations, armed reconnaissance helicopter operations, communications networking and, importantly, the ability to grow the teaming of crewed and uncrewed systems as we learn the lessons of modern warfare in the current environment.” — Major General Jeremy King