The latest version of the Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopter, known as the Version 6.5 (V6.5), has successfully flown with an upgraded capabilities suite, Boeing announced on 11 October 2023.
“We saw our hard work come to life with this first flight,” said Christina Upah, vice president of Attack Helicopter Programs and senior Boeing Mesa site executive. “These enhancements will take the E-model Apache to the next level in terms of capabilities, ensuring Apaches continue to dominate future battlefields.”
The contract to develop the V6.5 standard, awarded to Boeing by the US Department of Defense in December 2021, includes software updates that enhance capabilities and improve the pilot interface. Some of these enhancements include: optimised route and attack planning; enhanced Link 16 datalink features; and integration of an open systems interface, setting the stage for the US Army’s Modular Open Systems Approach for maximum interoperability, faster integration and advanced capabilities fielding.
“We’re very excited about the ongoing development of the V6.5 software as it paves the way for Apache modernisation,” Colonel John (Jay) Maher, the US Army’s Apache project manager, was quoted as saying by Boeing. “V6.5 aligns the entire E model fleet under the same software, streamlining training and maintenance while providing a pathway for sensor/capability parity, and enables the army to address mandates and critical technologies. Ensuring relevance into the future is a top priority.”
Building onto V6.5, Boeing is working with the US Army to integrate the new Improved Turbine Engine (ITE) into the aircraft. This powerplant, a General Electric Aerospace T901, will offer improvements in reach, available power, time on station and fuel efficiency, as well as sustainment improvements in relation to health and usage monitoring, maintenance and engine lifespan.
The original version of the Apache first flew on 30 September 1975. Deliveries of the first AH-64Es (a redesignation of the AH-64D Block III) began in November 2011.
