Who Makes Apache Helicopter?
The Apache helicopter is one of the most advanced and sophisticated attack helicopters in the world, used by several countries for various military operations. But who makes Apache helicopters? In this article, we will explore the origins and manufacturers of Apache helicopters.
History of Apache Helicopter
The Apache helicopter has its roots in the 1970s, when the US Army began developing a new attack helicopter to replace its existing fleet of Bell OH-58 Kiowa helicopters. The program was called the Advanced Attack Helicopter (AAH) program, and it aimed to create a helicopter that could fire missiles and rockets from the air.
In the late 1970s, the US Army issued a request for proposal (RFP) to several aerospace companies, including Boeing, Bell, and Lockheed. The RFP asked the companies to design and develop a new attack helicopter that could meet the army’s requirements.
Design and Development
In 1979, Boeing won the contract to develop the AH-64 Apache, and the company began designing and building the helicopter. The Apache was designed to be a multi-mission helicopter, capable of carrying out a variety of tasks such as attack, reconnaissance, and transport.
The Apache was equipped with a variety of advanced systems, including:
- Tow missile system: allows the Apache to fire tow missiles at ground targets.
- Hellfire missile system: allows the Apache to fire Hellfire missiles at ground targets.
- Night Vision Goggle (NVG): allows the Apache pilot to fly and engage targets in low-light conditions.
- Advanced Targeting Forward Looking Infrared (ATFLIR): a sensor system that provides real-time video and targeting information to the pilot.
Manufacturers
So, who makes Apache helicopters? The Apache helicopter is manufactured by Boeing Defense, Space & Security, a division of Boeing Company. Boeing has been the primary manufacturer of Apache helicopters since the 1980s.
Here is a breakdown of the main components of the Apache helicopter and their manufacturers:
| Component | Manufacturer |
|---|---|
| Main Rotor Blades | Sikorsky Aircraft |
| Tail Rotor | BendixKing |
| Engine | Lycoming |
| Electronic Warfare Systems | RCA |
| Targeting Systems | Litton |
Current Production and Export
Boeing continues to manufacture and deliver Apache helicopters to various countries around the world. The Apache is currently used by the US Army, as well as by several international customers, including:
- Israel: Israeli Air Force
- India: Indian Air Force
- Greece: Hellenic Air Force
- South Korea: Republic of Korea Army
- Netherlands: Royal Netherlands Army
Upgrades and Modernization
Boeing has also been upgrading and modernizing the Apache fleet over the years. In 2019, Boeing signed a contract with the US Army to upgrade 274 Apache helicopters to the Block III configuration. The upgrades include:
- Enhanced Vision System (EVS): allows pilots to fly and engage targets in low-light conditions.
- Modernized Radar and Electronic Warfare Systems.
- Improved Helicopter Electronic Warfare System (HEWS).
- Enhanced Situational Awareness (ESA).
Conclusion
The Apache helicopter is a sophisticated attack helicopter used by several countries around the world. While Boeing is the primary manufacturer of Apache helicopters, the company has also worked with several other aerospace companies to design and develop the aircraft. The Apache is continuously being upgraded and modernized to meet the evolving needs of military operations.
In summary, the main point of this article is:
- Boeing Defense, Space & Security is the primary manufacturer of Apache helicopters.
- Boeing has been manufacturing Apache helicopters since the 1980s.
- Apache helicopters are used by the US Army and several international customers.
- Boeing has upgraded and modernized the Apache fleet over the years, and continues to deliver new Apache helicopters to international customers.
