When was the Apache Helicopter Made?
The Apache helicopter is a iconic and highly advanced attack helicopter developed by the United States Army. It has been a crucial part of the US military’s arsenal for decades, known for its exceptional maneuverability, firepower, and reliability. But when was the Apache helicopter first made?
Early Development
The Apache helicopter’s development began in the 1970s, when the US Army recognized the need for a new attack helicopter to replace the aging Bell AH-1 Cobra. The Army issued a request for proposal (RFP) in 1972, and several companies, including Bell Helicopter, Boeing, and Hughes Helicopters, responded with their designs.
Prototype and Testing
The first prototype of the Apache helicopter, known as the YAH-64, was built in 1975 by Hughes Helicopters. The prototype underwent rigorous testing and evaluation, including flight testing, armament testing, and environmental testing. The testing process was long and arduous, with the Apache facing numerous technical challenges and setbacks.
Production and Deployment
After successful testing, the Apache helicopter entered production in 1984. The first production model, known as the AH-64A, was delivered to the US Army in 1986. The Apache quickly became a mainstay of the US military’s attack helicopter fleet, with thousands of units produced and deployed around the world.
Key Features and Capabilities
The Apache helicopter is known for its exceptional capabilities, including:
• Advanced Avionics: The Apache features a state-of-the-art avionics system, including a glass cockpit, digital map display, and advanced sensors.
• Firepower: The Apache is equipped with a 30mm M230 chain gun and can carry up to 16 Hellfire missiles.
• Maneuverability: The Apache has a high degree of maneuverability, thanks to its powerful engines and advanced flight control systems.
• Reliability: The Apache has a reputation for being highly reliable, with a high mission-capable rate and low maintenance requirements.
Upgrades and Modernization
Over the years, the Apache helicopter has undergone several upgrades and modernization programs, including:
• AH-64A to AH-64B: The AH-64B upgrade added new avionics, improved sensors, and increased firepower.
• AH-64C: The AH-64C upgrade added advanced sensors, including a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) system and a laser designator.
• AH-64D: The AH-64D upgrade added improved avionics, increased firepower, and enhanced situational awareness.
International Sales and Operations
The Apache helicopter has been exported to several countries, including:
• Israel: The Israeli Air Force operates the Apache as part of its attack helicopter fleet.
• United Kingdom: The British Army operates the Apache as part of its attack helicopter fleet.
• India: The Indian Army operates the Apache as part of its attack helicopter fleet.
Conclusion
The Apache helicopter has been a crucial part of the US military’s arsenal for decades, known for its exceptional capabilities and reliability. From its early development in the 1970s to its modernization programs today, the Apache has continued to evolve and improve, remaining a key component of the US military’s attack helicopter fleet.
Timeline of Apache Development
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1972 | US Army issues request for proposal (RFP) for new attack helicopter |
| 1975 | First prototype of Apache helicopter (YAH-64) built by Hughes Helicopters |
| 1984 | Apache helicopter enters production |
| 1986 | First production model (AH-64A) delivered to US Army |
| 1990s | AH-64A upgraded to AH-64B |
| 2000s | AH-64B upgraded to AH-64C |
| 2010s | AH-64C upgraded to AH-64D |
Specifications
| Specification | AH-64A | AH-64B | AH-64C | AH-64D |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 58.6 ft (17.9 m) | 58.6 ft (17.9 m) | 58.6 ft (17.9 m) | 58.6 ft (17.9 m) |
| Height | 18.2 ft (5.5 m) | 18.2 ft (5.5 m) | 18.2 ft (5.5 m) | 18.2 ft (5.5 m) |
| Empty Weight | 9,800 lb (4,445 kg) | 10,500 lb (4,763 kg) | 11,000 lb (5,000 kg) | 11,500 lb (5,216 kg) |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 14,000 lb (6,350 kg) | 15,000 lb (6,804 kg) | 16,000 lb (7,257 kg) | 17,000 lb (7,711 kg) |
| Engines | 2 x Lycoming T53-L-703 | 2 x Lycoming T53-L-703 | 2 x General Electric T700-GE-701C | 2 x General Electric T700-GE-701C |
| Maximum Speed | 180 mph (290 km/h) | 180 mph (290 km/h) | 180 mph (290 km/h) | 180 mph (290 km/h) |
| Range | 160 nm (296 km) | 160 nm (296 km) | 160 nm (296 km) | 160 nm (296 km) |
| Ceiling | 20,000 ft (6,100 m) | 20,000 ft (6,100 m) | 20,000 ft (6,100 m) | 20,000 ft (6,100 m) |
References
- "Apache Helicopter: A Brief History" by the US Army
- "Apache Helicopter" by GlobalSecurity.org
- "AH-64 Apache" by Military.com
- "Apache Helicopter" by Wikipedia
