For $300 million, the U.S. authorized the sale of a support package for the Australian Army’s AH-64E Apache helicopters

Por

1 September, 2024

Through a statement from the U.S. Department of State, it has been announced that the U.S. has authorized a potential sale to Australia of maintenance support services for AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. This request was made under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program by the Australian government, which, in April, presented a new contract with Boeing Defense Australia to enhance support, maintenance, and training for the future attack helicopters. The potential sale of this support package has already been notified to the U.S. Congress for subsequent approval.

In their upgraded version, the AH-64E Apaches are set to be incorporated into the Australian Army in the coming years, following the formal announcement in 2023 where Boeing confirmed the Australian government’s decision to proceed with the acquisition of 29 units to replace their Eurocopter Tiger fleet. Additionally, 12 new MH-60R helicopters were also added to replace the small fleet of MRH-90 Taipan helicopters.

According to the Australian Department of Defence (DoD), the first AH-64E Apache “is on track for delivery” in 2025. The helicopters are expected to reach their full operational capability (FOC) in fiscal year (FY) 2028-29, as reported by Janes.

The estimated cost of the support package is around USD 300 million. This includes not only logistical, technical, and engineering support services from the U.S. government and contractors but also technical data and publications, personnel training, and other logistics and program support elements. The main contractors will be The Boeing Company, based in Mesa, Arizona, and Lockheed Martin, based in Orlando, Florida.

An AH-64E Apache helicopter sits on the flight line at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia, Apr. 12. Pilots assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, conducted familiarization training on the aircraft as the until transitions to the newer E model from the older D model. The AH-64E Apache is designed to increase power margins and reliability which increases unit readiness and lethality. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Savannah Roy, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division)

As detailed in the statement, this proposal aims to support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives, recognizing Australia as one of its key allies. It also considers the regional situation and stability in the Western Pacific to maintain Australia’s self-defense capabilities.