The Australian Army has recently welcomed its first two Boeing AH-64E Apache combat helicopters at RAAF Base Townsville in Queensland, representing a significant enhancement to the nation’s aerial capabilities. This acquisition comes through a United States foreign military sale, with a total of 29 AH-64E Apaches expected to be delivered by 2029, marking a replacement for the aging Tiger rotary-wing fleet currently in service.
These advanced helicopters are set to play a vital role in the Australian Army’s operations, particularly in supporting longer-range and coastal missions. The AH-64E boasts superior scouting, communication, and precision strike capabilities, which will be integral to improving operational effectiveness.
Australian air and ground crews are currently undergoing training in both the United States and the United Kingdom to familiarize themselves with the features and operations of the new helicopters. A portion of the crews has already completed qualifications for operating and maintaining the aircraft, ensuring preparedness for their deployment.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles emphasized the significance of the Apache helicopters, stating that they represent a “critical step change” in the Army’s attack aviation capability. This move aligns with the Albanese Government’s broader investments aimed at bolstering the defence forces’ operational capabilities from bases in northern Australia.
As part of the procurement process, Boeing’s Australian division has secured a seven-year contract worth 306 million Australian dollars (approximately 202 million USD) to provide sustained support for the AH-64Es, covering areas such as engineering, training, and logistics. This agreement is anticipated to create over 240 jobs throughout Queensland, with 170 expected in Townsville alone.
In a parallel development, an aviation training academy is set to be established in Townsville, aimed at equipping technicians for both Apache and Chinook helicopters. This initiative will further bolster local employment opportunities within the aerospace sector.
In addition to job creation, the Australian government has allocated 700 million Australian dollars (about 462.2 million USD) for significant upgrades at RAAF Base Townsville. This infrastructure enhancement will support the new Apache fleet and facilitate the relocation of army aviation units from Darwin, which is projected to generate another 275 jobs in the area.
Amy List, managing director at Boeing Defence Australia, highlighted that the arrival of the AH-64E helicopters marks an important milestone, enhancing Australia’s military capabilities while concurrently creating skilled job opportunities in a cutting-edge aerospace environment.
The AH-64E Apache, renowned for its precision strike capabilities, features advanced avionics, a next-generation defensive system, and a 30-millimeter chain gun. Its versatile armament includes a variety of multi-domain missiles, significantly enhancing its combat effectiveness on the front lines. The helicopter is powered by two General Electric T700 turboshaft engines, enabling it to reach speeds of 300 kilometers per hour (186 miles per hour) and a range of nearly 500 kilometers (311 miles).
With this latest handover in Townsville, Australia joins a select group of nations, becoming the 18th country to operate the Apache helicopters, adding to the nearly 1,300 units currently deployed globally.
