Modernized AH‑64E Apache is in the air. Machine has completed its first flight

The upgraded Boeing AH-64E Apache assault helicopter version 6.5 has made its first flight. Its manufacturer, Boeing, reports that the iconic machine, in its modernized version, offers even better connectivity, navigation, battlefield survival capabilities or inflicting powerful blows on the enemy. It is possible that Poland will be among the first export users of this version.

The latest version of the AH-64E Apache, known as 6.5 or V6.5, has made its first successful flight, showcasing its enhanced capabilities. Its creators believe it represents the next stage in the evolution of the world's best attack helicopter, taking it to a new level, while ensuring its continuing dominance on future battlefields.

Boeing reminds us that the development of version 6.5 (V6.5) was commissioned by the U.S. Department of Defense in December 2021. It encompasses numerous machine software updates that affect the aforementioned capabilities, as well as improvements to the pilot interface. Examples of these are:

• Optimized route and attack planning,
• Enhanced Link 16 features (an integrated tactical data exchange link),
• Integration of open systems interface, laying the groundwork for a modular approach to open systems to ensure maximum interoperability, faster integration, and usage of advanced capabilities.

The corporation also informs that, based on version 6.5, it is collaborating with the US army to integrate the enhanced turbine engine (ITE) with their machinery. The General Electric Aerospace T901 engine is expected to provide, among other things, a greater range for the AH-64E Apache, power, and fuel economy. According to Boeing, it will also improve the state monitoring and maintenance, which will ultimately affect the engine's life.

In early September, the U.S. State Department approved the sale of 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to Poland. Shortly thereafter, Mariusz Błaszczak, the head of the Ministry of National Defense, approved an offset agreement for the Apache helicopters. He also announced that until the procedures are completed and the purchased helicopters are delivered to Poland, the U.S. Army will allocate Apache helicopters from its own resources.

If the AH-64E Apache purchase agreement is realized, Poland will become the second largest operator of these machines after the United States. In this way, our army will have six squadrons of modern assault helicopters available for use, allowing for the abandonment of the aging Mi-24 helicopters, which have been serving in our military since the 80's. The ZBiAM service notes that "currently there is no information regarding the research phase schedule, however, it cannot be ruled out (considering the production cycle) that Poland will be among the first export users of version v6.5".