AH-64D Apach
E
merging as the next generation of
multi-mission attack helicopter, the
AH-64D Apache Longbow is changing the
face of warfare today. Recently in operation in
Iraq and Afghanistan, and used by armed
forces all over the world, its militar y
performance is well-recognised and has
proved itself both combat-ready and reliable
over the last 13 years of ser v ice.
The AH-64D Apache Longbow is the latest
iteration of the Apache class of gunship as
produced by Boeing. Differentiating it from
earlier models, the AH-64D Longbow is now
fi tted with a fi re-control radar above its
four-blade composite main rotor. This allows it
longer-range weapons accurac y, cloaked object
detection (both mov ing and stationar y),
classifi cation and threat-prioritisation of up to
128 targets in less than 60 seconds and greater
situational awareness, real-time management
of the combat arena and digital transmission of
target locations.
Married to these advanced systems is an
armament to make the most armoured target
rethink their strateg y. Topping this list of
destruction is the Apache’s Hellfi re missiles,
which are dedicated laser-guided anti-armour
missiles that make short work of tanks,
bunkers and artiller y.
The Longbow is also fi tted with a brace of
70mm rockets, which can be fi red off in quick
succession and prov ide awesome power and
fl exibility when up against numerous targets.
Lastly, mounted on its underside is the
AH-64D’s 30mm M230 chain gun. Holding 1,200
30mm high-incendiar y rounds, and controlled
remotely by the pilot through his helmet –
allowing hands-free targeting and tracking –
the M230 chain gun is capable of lay ing dow n a
phenomenal amount of damage and is ideal for
clearing enemy soldiers on the ground.
Since 2008, the AH-64D has also been
upgraded to include increased digitisation, a
joint tactical radio system, enhanced engines
and drive systems, capabilit y to control UAVs
(unmanned aerial vehicles) – which have been
used extensively in the Iraq and Afghanistan
wars – and improved landing gear. Currently,
the Apache AH-64D Longbow is operated by
America, Egypt, Greece, Israel, Japan, Kuwait,
Netherlands, China, Singapore and the United
Arab Emirates, with many other countries
operating earlier variants.The latest iteration of the combat-tested
Apache gunship, the AH-64D Longbow
is a powerhouse of performance,
bringing massive damage and
fl exibility to the theatre of war
- 30mm
automatic cannon
Firing large, highly incendiary
rounds (the Apache carries
1,200 units), the 30mm
automatic cannon is a multi-
purpose chain gun capable of
ripping through man and
machine with ease. - Composite rotor blades
The AH- 64D Longbow is fitted with a
new composite four-blade main rotor,
allowing for increased payload,
climb rate and cruise speed over
earlier variants. - Radome
Through the systems within,
this provides the Longbow
with combat information on its
surroundings and enemies,
such as target azimuth,
elevation, range and velocit y.
This allows it to quickly and
efficiently calculate a firing
solution to best hit its targets.
5. Cockpit
With room for two, the Apache’s cockpit
allows excellent battlefield visibility
with wide viewing angles. It is fitted
with cutting-edge communication,
weapon and navigational systems.
“Say hello to my
little friend”MILITARY