Apache Helicopters—also known as AH-64s—are the most advanced attack helicopters in the world and are used by the United States Army, as well as several other countries. The Apache is primarily used to attack ground targets, but can also provide support to ground troops. Here are six amazing facts about these helicopters:
1. The Apache is an incredibly stable aircraft. It can hold its position to within six inches, even in a 60 knot crosswind.
2. The Apache has the ability to shoot down other aircraft. It does this using Stinger missiles, Hellfire missiles, and a 30 mm cannon.
3. The Apache can carry up to 16 Hellfire missiles at a time, with a range of over three miles (8 km).
4. When traveling at top speed, the Apache travels at approximately 170 mph (270 km/h).
5. Apaches are able to operate during the day or night due to very sensitive optics that allow them to see their target in either case.
6. The maximum range of an Apache is around 600 miles (965 km), though this can be extended by adding fuel tanks or allying with other air forces who have tankers nearby.
Apache Helicopter Facts:
* The Apache was the Army’s first aircraft designed specifically for the air cavalry role.
* The AH-64 is designed to fight during the day and night and in adverse weather.
* The Apache can see, shoot, and kill under almost any weather or light condition.
* Apaches were deployed to Kuwait in 1991 as part of Operation Desert Storm.
* The Apache has a low-probability-of-intercept radar that gives it greater protection from enemy radar and infrared detection systems.
* It’s built with composite materials that make it more durable than previous helicopters.
The Apache is the most advanced multi-role combat helicopter for the US Army and a growing number of international defense forces. Apache is designed to hunt and destroy tanks, armored vehicles and other helicopters; to attack, close with and destroy enemy ground forces; to provide armed escort, armed reconnaissance, air assault, air cavalry and aeromedicals evacuation missions. The AH 64A has been operational with the US Army since July 1984.
The AH 64D Longbow Apache is the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopter and is used by the US Army and a growing number of international defense forces. It was designed as a tank killer from day one, but has evolved into one of the world’s most versatile weapons platforms.
1. The Apache is a two seater helicopter, and can hit speeds of up to 159 miles per hour.
2. It has 2 very powerful engines, and has a full total of 16 Hellfire missiles.
3. It’s main job is to seek out and destroy tanks from long distance.
4. It also carries 76 Hydra 70 rockets, which can be used for a variety of different missions.
5. It also carries 1 30mm chain gun, this weapon can fire 625 rounds per minute!
6. When it first came out in the 80’s it was the most feared weapons system on the battlefield!
The AH-64 Apache is a four-bladed, twin-engine attack helicopter with a tailwheel-type landing gear arrangement and a tandem cockpit for a two-man crew. It features a nose-mounted sensor suite for target acquisition and night vision systems. It is armed with a 30 mm (1.18 in) M230 chain gun carried between the main landing gear, under the aircraft’s forward fuselage. It has four hardpoints mounted on stub-wing pylons, typically carrying a mixture of AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and Hydra 70 rocket pods. The AH-64 has significant systems redundancy to improve combat survivability.
The U.S. Army selected the Boeing AH-64 over the Bell YAH-63 in 1976, and later approved full production in 1982. After purchasing 900 AH-64s, the U.S. Army has no current plans to replace the Apache in U.S. service and instead continue to upgrade to the latest variant, the AH-64E Apache Guardian. Foreign customers also use older variants of the AH-64; Israel and Japan both have produced their own versions as well as purchasing second hand from the United States military
Due to its heavy armament and mission flexibility, it is often compared with