APACHE NEWS2008

n keeping the peACe n internAtionAl updAtes n foCus on the future

Over the past several years, I’ve watched amazing aviators and dedi-cated maintainers operate Apache

helicopters in demanding environments from field training operations to combat operations. I am inspired by their cour-age, fortitude, and innovation – courage to do the right thing, fortitude to stick it out, and innovation to adapt and improve their conditions.

The Apache program has the best cus-tomers in the world! Our customers are our number one focus, and will always be. We conduct business with the soldier as our top priority. Apache Team members appre-ciate the contributions and sacrifices that our customers make for freedom.

In today’s worldwide defensive posture, industry is also in a heightened state of re-sponsiveness. Though we don’t share the challenges of repeated deployments and dangers faced by our customers, we listen to the information they share, we under-stand their objectives and we are com-mitted to their goals. We take pride in our customer “welcome home” ceremonies worldwide, and Apache leaders actively participate in after action review meet-ings. Strategic planners and engineers work with integrated product teams and program managers to keep improving the Apache. And we use the input from the

commanders and soldiers in the field as valuable sources on how to best do that.

With an eye to the future, using inter-nal research and development funding, Boeing’s Apache program is leading the ef-fort, in cooperation with Army Aviation, to integrate Apache into Future Combat Systems and other joint forces operations. The Apache has proved its relevance to current force operations. And we’re work-ing to demonstrate that technologies of today’s helicopter, and the network-centric capabilities of the Block III Apache that will begin service in a few years, are essential to Army and joint operations.

Working with the Team Apache suppli-ers, Boeing Apache teammates take pride in building and delivering our product – the world’s best combat, multirole helicopter, the AH-64D Apache Longbow. Our cus-tomers can be assured that they have a solid commitment – promises made, prom-ises kept – from me and the Apache Team.

Enjoy this newest issue of this award- winning, annual magazine, which recently received another Communicator Award for creative excellence. As you thumb through this issue of Apache News, you can read the thoughts and comments of our U.S. Army and international customers as they share personal experiences in the line of duty with this awesome helicopter. n

APACHE NEWS

2008

IT BEgInS WITH A foCuSOn THE CuStomEr

tHE APACHE tEAm

Vice President of Apache Programs Al Winn encourages Apache team-mates to ensure customers’ needs are met and expectations are exceeded – fulling the credo “Promises Made. Promises Kept.”

Whether keeping peACe Around the globe, PrOTECTIng nATIOnAL InTErESTS Or EnSUrIng FUTUrE grOWTH OF APACHE CAPABILITIES, THE WOrLDWIDE APACHE TEAM HAD ITS HAnDS FULL In 2007. THIS AnnUAL rEVIEW OF THE TEAM’S SUCCESSES ILLUSTrATES WHAT APACHE OPErATOrS HAVE ALWAyS KnOWn: APACHE LOngBOW IS THE WOrLD’S BEST MULTI-rOLE COMBAT HELICOPTEr . . . AnD IT jUST KEEPS gETTIng BETTEr.

ADDrESS COrrESPOnDEnCE TO: EDITOr, APACHE nEWS, THE BOEIng COMPAny, 5000 E. MCDOWELL rOAD M510/A387, MESA, Az 85215 Or E-MAIL HAL.g.KLOPPEr@BOEIng.COM Or VISIT OUr WEB SITE AT HTTP://WWW.BOEIng.COM

defending

FREEDOMFIrST TO THE FIgHT

APACHE VErSATILITy

SOLDIErS SHArE COMBAT STOrIES

FIgHTIng TErrOrISM 24/7

internAtionAl

UPDATESAPACHES PrOVE THEIr METTLE

BrITISH CrEWS TrAIn In THE DESErT

AVIATIOn TrAInIng InTErnATIOnAL LTD

PErFOrMAnCE-BASED LOgISTICS

KUWAIT AIr FOrCE FLEET

BOEIng SUPPOrT SySTEMS

OLyMPIC APACHES rEVISITED

nEW SALES EFFOrTS

APACHE DELIVEry CEnTEr

WOrLDWIDE SUPPLy nETWOrK

foCus on the

FUTURE

WITH nEW TECHnOLOgIES, THE BLOCK III APACHE BrIngS nEW CAPABILITIES TO jOInT FOrCE MISSIOnS

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nEW TECHnOLOgIES

AnALySIS MODELIng & SIMULATIOn

APACHE MODErnIzATIOn

BLOCK III IS On THE HOrIzOn

nEW COnTrACTS, nEW TECHnOLOgy

nEWS BrIEFS

525456586062

CoNtENtS

4FOUR

5FIVE

U.S. ArMy APACHES COnTInUE TO DELIVEr THE CAPABILITIES nEEDED By COMMAnDErS AnD AVIATOrS

THE InTErnATIOnAL APACHE COM-MUnITy ExPAnDS AS DEFEnSE FOrCES CHOOSE THIS MULTI-rOLE HELICOPTEr

ApAChe neWs IS PUBLISHED By BoEING rotorCrAft SYStEmS

FOr THE uNItED StAtES ArmY AnD THE WorlDWIDE APACHE tEAm

EDITOr HAl kloPPEr rOTOrCrAFT SySTEMS EDITOrIAL STAFF (MESA) lISA DuNBAr, CArolE tHomPSoN

OTHEr COnTrIBUTOrS EDWIN DE GrEEuW, DAlE mACPHErSoN, lArrY PlAStEr, BrAD rouNDINGPHOTOgrAPHy TEAM BoB fErGuSoN, mIkE GoEttINGS, HAl kloPPEr, jAN StuvE

DESIgn CASS WEAvEr DIrECTOr OF rOTOrCrAFT COMMUnICATIOnS joE lAmArCA

VICE PrESIDEnT, APACHE PrOgrAMS Al WINN VICE PrESIDEnT, gEnErAL MAnAgEr rOTOrCrAFT SySTEMS CHuCk AllEN

APACHE NEWS

2008

6SIX

7SEVEN

APACHE MILESTOnES WErE ALMOST COMMOnPLACE OVEr THE PAST yEAr, WITH nEW HELICOPTEr DELIV-ErIES, MOrE DEPLOyMEnTS AnD BATTLEFIELD rOLES rEPOrTED rEgULArLy. APACHE HELICOPTErS LOggED THOUSAnDS OF HOUrS PErFOrMIng PEACEKEEPIng MISSIOnS, SUPPOrTIng nATIOnAL DEFEnSE InITIATIVES AnD COMPLETIng ESSEnTIAL TrAInIng MISSIOnS. THE BrIEF SUMMArIES OF THE U.S. ArMy’S SUCCESSES On THESE PAgES OFFEr jUST A SAMPLIng OF ACHIEVEMEnTS OVEr THE PAST yEAr.

DEFENDINGFREEDOM

The Arizona Army national guard is us-ing leading-edge Apache technology in Afghanistan to fight the global War on

Terrorism.The 1st Battalion, 285th Aviation regi-

ment, an Apache unit of 450 citizen soldiers known as Task Force Desert Hawk, de-ployed to Afghanistan in january 2007, and took along the first 24 Apache Longbows ever used by a guard unit.

“This is the first guard unit to use lead-ing edge technology of the Apache Longbow to keep soldiers safe,” said Major general David rataczak, adjutant general for the Arizona national guard.

Their stories will be told on video next year in another installment of the “Back from Afghanistan” series done by The Boeing Company in Mesa, Ariz.

Karen Schaler, a reporter from KnxV Channel 15, the Phoenix, Ariz., ABC televi-sion news affiliate, was embedded with the unit for two weeks and shared stories of the soldiers with television viewers.

Trained at Fort Hood, Texas, with the 21st Cavalry Brigade, the 1st Battalion, 285th Aviation regiment, was certified combat ready near the end of 2006.

“The soldiers love what they do,” ratac-zak said. “They are fighting for democracy and the people of Afghanistan appreciate it. Morale is good. One of the soldiers is on his third tour. He volunteered to go back.”

The Apache Longbow is a survivable, intimidating aircraft, rataczak said.

“When Apache Longbows are over-head, soldiers feel safer and insurgents are intimidated,” he said. “Often just their presence can frighten insurgents without even having to fire a round. And the aircraft can stand up to the tough conditions of the region, such as sand, dust storms and high altitudes.” More than 1,600 soldiers from the Arizona national guard are stationed in Afghanistan fighting for freedom.

Having Apache Longbows makes life easier for both guard and active Army pi-lots. “Because this unit now has the same equipment as active duty Apache units, they can fly together with the same capabil-ities, communicate on common equipment, and share parts if necessary, and maintain-ers know how to work on all the aircraft,” rataczak said. n

8EIghT

DEFENDINGFREEDOM

9NINE

InTO ComBAt

fIrSt to tHE fIGHt

NAtIoNAl GuArDTAKES APACHE loNGBoWS

ArIzoNA

rIgHT: Apache rocket pod tubes . . . from a rocket’s viewpoint.

In 2007, The Arizona national guard became the first reserve Component to take its Apache Longbow helicopters into combat. And the Arizona guard won’t be the last.

DEFENDINGFREEDOM

AriZonA1-285

A-Model training base Western Army Aviation training siteMarana

idAho1-183gowen Field – Boise

Mississippi C Company 1-151Hawkins Field – jackson

Missouri 1-135Whiteman Air Force Base

north CArolinA1-130raleigh-Durham Airport

pennsYlVAniA1-104Muir Army Air Field – Fort Indiantown gap

south CArolinA1-151McEntire Air national guard Base – Eastover

tennesseee Company, 1-230jackson

teXAs1-149 Ellington Air national guard Base – Houston

utAh1-211Army Aviation Support Facility – West jordon

kentuCkY 8-229 (usAr)

Fort Knox

teXAs7-6 (usAr)

Conroe

U.S. Army national guard and reserve units con-tinue to support the global War on Terrorism by flying their AH-64A Apaches and AH-64D Apache Longbows in combat.

“THE MEn AnD WOMEn OF THE ArMy nATIOnAL gUArD AnD U.S. ArMy rESErVE APACHE UnITS COnTInUE TO DISTIngUISH THEMSELVES In COMBAT. COnSIDEr THE ACTIOnS OF CHIEF WArrAnT OFFICEr 4 KEVIn PUrTEE (TExAS nATIOnAL gUArD) AnD CHIEF WArrAnT OFFICEr 2 ALLEn CrIST (MISSOUrI nATIOnAL gUArD) WHO rISKED THEIr LIVES In An UnOrTHODOx CASUALTy EVACUATIOn By TrAnSPOrTIng A CrITICALLy WOUnDED SOLDIEr In THE AH-64A DUrIng A FIrEFIgHT In rAMADI, IrAq. WITH THE WOUnDED SOLDIEr In THE CO-PILOT SEAT AnD CrIST TETHErED TO THE AIrCrAFT AS HE SAT On THE WIng, PUrTEE FLEW THE WOUnDED SOLDIEr TO SAFETy FOr MUCH-nEEDED MEDICAL ATTEnTIOn. “WE HAVE SEEn THE TrAgEDy OF WATCHIng SOLDIErS On THE grOUnD WAITIng FOr MEDEVAC . . . THErE IS nO MOrE HOPE-LESS FEELIng THAn WATCHIng THE gUyS WHO nEED HELP nOT gET IT, AnD I’M TIrED OF THAT AnD THAT’S WHy WE MADE OUr CHOICE TO gO In AnD DO WHAT WE DID,’ SAID PUrTEE. WHEn WE SEE THAT TyPE OF DEDICATIOn AnD SELFLESS SErVICE By OUr CITIzEn SOLDIErS, WE SHOULD ALL BE PrOUD OF THEIr PATrIOTISM AnD SErVICE TO THIS grEAT COUnTry.”– Mike Burke, Director, Apache Business Development, The Boeing Company

10TEN

11ElEVEN

LEFT: 70mm rocket pods . . . fully loaded on an Apache

“The Apache is a great product. I stand by the awesome Apache for I can personally testify, as can many of my aviators, to the fact that she takes a beating well while still pouring steel on target,

destroying evil while protecting our soldiers on the ground in the fight.”

– Captain John P. Wietrick, AV, Commanding, Tennessee National Guard, Task Force Nighthawk, Operation Enduring Freedom VII

12TwElVE

13ThIRTEEN

The Apache helicopter is re-nowned for its survivability, lethality and dominance during

wartime, but lately the aircraft has added a new element of versatility to its resume: extracting and rescuing injured soldiers from the battlefield in the global War on Terrorism.

In recent months, several efforts have been recorded – a new Apache first, logged by the British and their Apache AH-Mk1 helicopters – fol-lowed by a rescue of downed pilots by a U.S. Army Apache Longbow.

In january 2007, U.K. Marines at-tempted a daring Apache rescue of a comrade during an Afghanistan opera-tion while fighting the Taliban. It was the first time soldiers had been carried into combat aboard an Apache heli-copter. U.K. Task Force spokesman Lieutenant Colonel rory Bruce said: “It was a leap into the unknown. This is believed to be the first time U.K. forces have ever tried this type of rescue mission.”

When they discovered Lance Corporal Ford was missing they flew back, strapped to Apaches, to find their fallen comrade in a unique rescue mission attempt.

An initial plan was to use Viking vehicles, but they eventually concluded that the AH-Mk1 attack helicopters would provide a quicker and safer means to get him out.

The troops were strapped to the small side wings of two Apaches. A third Apache provided aerial cover, and further units laid down a mass of covering fire while the other two Apaches landed.

All four men got off, as well as some of the aircrew, to provide additional firepower and to assist with the recovery of the soldier.

Two pilots from the 1st Cavalry Division, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade and their wingmen were recently honored with Distinguised Flying Crosses in july 2007 for evacuating two downed OH-58 Kiowa pilots in Iraq. (See re-lated story on page 63.)

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Allan Davi-son rescued two downed Kiowa pilots and Chief Warrant Officer 3 Micah johnson allowed one of the Kiowa pilots to take his seat on the Apache Longbow while he and the other Kiowa pilot strapped themselves to the outside of the aircraft and sat on the wings.

Davison then headed the aircraft to Baghdad International Airport where the injured pilots were dropped off. While this was taking place, their Apache wingmen – Chief Warrant Of-ficer 2 Seung Choi and Chief Warrant

Officer 3 Troy Moseley – circled to provide security.In 2004 during Operation Iraqi Freedom, soldiers from the

1-227 Aviation regiment rescued two downed pilots in Bagdad with an Apache Longbow. Chief Warrant Officer 2 justin Taylor and Captain ryan Welch hooked one pilot to the outside of the air-craft and put one in the front seat. Then Welch strapped himself to the outside of the Apache and all were evacuated to safety.

And as early as 1991, the 1-227 Aviation regiment soldiers used their A-model Apaches for a daring rescue during Opera-tion Desert Storm in Iraq. Two pilots in an Apache were downed by a ground missile. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Ed Sanderlin and 1st Lieutenant Colonel robert johnston rescued two downed pilots by propping them against the Apache’s wings and bracing their legs against the pylons. n

DEFENDINGFREEDOM

Apache Longbow pilots from the 1-227 Aviation regiment stand by one of the AH-64D Apache Longbows they used to evacuate two downed helicopter pilots in Baghdad. From left are Allan Davison, Micah johnson, Seung Choi and Troy Moseley.

NEW ElEmENt of vErSAtIlItY to ItS

WArtImE rolE:ExTrACTIOn OF INjurED SolDIErS

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right: British soldiers prepare for a daring rescue mission aboard their Apache AH Mk1 helicopter.

Thinking back on it, recalled Lieuten-ant Colonel Mike rapavi, 81,000 combined combat flight hours in a

year was an impressive number for any combat brigade in Iraq. When half of those hours are for Apache Longbow helicopters, the numbers take on more meaning.

And when rapavi, battalion command-er, 1st Battalion, 4th Aviation regiment, 4th Infantry Division, and four pilots from the division recently visited The Boeing Company’s Apache facility in Mesa, Ariz., to talk about their missions, stories they told reinforced the belief that Apache is an unmatched combat weapon.

rapavi and four pilots from battalions in 4-ID visited Mesa to discuss missions in Operation Iraqi Freedom between no-vember 2005 and november 2006. joining rapavi were Captain Erik Sparks, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Scott Small, Chief War-rant Officer 3 Steven Boehm and Chief Warrant Officer 2 William jones.

The Combat Aviation Brigade flew more than 81,000 hours in Iraq. The 1st Battal-ion flew just under 20,000 as did the 4th Battalion, 4th Aviation regiment.

Collectively about half of the total hours the brigade flew were logged by Apaches.

“Twenty thousand hours is about four times what we would normally fly in the United States with our 24 Apache Longbows,” rapavi said. “It’s an impres-sive achievement. And we were able to maintain an 88 percent operational readi-ness rate. Those are both significant ac-complishments for the soldiers and for contractors that were over there. Everyone did a great job making sure aircraft stayed flying 24 hours a day.”

“The operational tempo and the num-ber of lives we saved changed many young soldiers in our battalion,” he added. “They left Iraq knowing they made a difference.”

rapavi said one of his greatest satis-factions came when young ground soldiers thanked them for keeping them safe while under attack or for protecting convoys on the road. “I believe our mission was a great success from that perspective.” n

14FOURTEEN

DEFENDINGFREEDOM

15FIFTEEN

lieutenAnt Colonel Mike rApAViMy greatest satisfaction was in growth that I saw in my young leaders. During my junior years as an officer, it took a lot of time to gain the same experience that these young guys developed during a one-year deployment in war. Captain Erik Sparks is a good example . . . he came to the unit straight out of flight school and flew more than 700 hours in Iraq. His performance was magnificent. He served as an Air Mis-sion Commander on the majority of his missions and completed each superbly. not only did he grow technically and tactically as a pilot, but the maturity he developed and the leadership experience he gained is going to make him one of the finest aviation leaders of the future. He earned the Air Medal with V-device for a security mission in which several U.S. soldiers had been taken captive. While performing a combat air patrol, he was called in to assist ground forces that had been taking direct and indirect fire. Shortly after arriving in the area, he identi-fied the point of origin and made several passes suppressing the hostilities, even though his own aircraft was taking fire. He was on station for many hours, refueling several times and returning to this hostile environment to support the mission. From the time that his air weapons team arrived on site, there were no other friendly casualties, and on departure from the area his team provided aerial security to the medevac as it evacuated a seriously wounded soldier to safety. This is just one example of many that illustrates the level of responsibility we place on these young leaders. n

continued on page 16

4th infAntrY diVision

SHArE ComBAt StorIESSolDIErS

WITH APACHE tEAmmAtES

“My grEATEST SATISFACTIOn WAS In grOWTH THAT I SAW In My yOUng LEADErS.”– Lieutenant Colonel Mike Rapavi

Five members of the 4th Infantry Division visited Boeing in 2007 to tell about their suc-cesses with the Apache helicopter in Iraq.

continued from page 15

16SIXTEEN

DEFENDINGFREEDOM

17SEVENTEEN

Chief WArrAnt offiCer 3 steVen e. boehM

On july 13, Chief Warrant Of-ficer 2 William jones and I had been performing combat aerial patrol in the southern region of Baghdad. We were the lead ship for our team and responded

to a request for help in a zone known to have enemy activity. Apaches were providing aerial support to the ground unit and looking for insurgents that had attacked their vehicles. U.S. troops had taken enemy fire 15 minutes prior to us arriv-ing. Once we were on station, we assumed aerial patrol to provide security and search for the enemy personnel. At about 300 feet and traveling 100 knots in an easterly direction we received small arms fire. It hit the number one engine on the left side of the aircraft, causing it to catch fire. More rapid fire ruptured the aft fuel cell. We had fuel and fire streaming down the tail boom. My wingman was telling me we’re on fire. At that

point as pilot in command, I was looking for an area suitable to put the aircraft down. Then a rocket tore through the aft fuel cell and hit the number two engine. Along with multiple aircraft system failures, smoke coming into the cockpit and the number one engine already out, the second engine then failed on us. We had taken so much damage flames were burning part of the stabilator all the way at the end of the aircraft. At about 50 feet off the ground the aircraft yawed and the tail rotor separated from the vertical sta-bilizer as we were auto rotating. We struck an aqueduct, rolled and ended up upside down with the canopies blocked. We still had communications between

the crew stations. I jettisoned the canopies and we got out of the aircraft. Luckily neither one of us had severe injuries. I used my survival radio to contact our wingman. He advised me that he’d called our battalion over Baghdad radio, one of the patrolling agencies in the area letting us know what aircraft are operating in what zones. And a Blackhawk company from the Maryland national guard unit was in the air conduct-ing a separate mission. Within 15 minutes they picked us up. After the crash, I was checked out and later flew another 300 of my 600 total combat hours in Apaches during my stay in Iraq. n

Chief WArrAnt offiCer 2 WilliAM Jones

After our aircraft was on the ground and I had assessed the damage that we’d received – and looking at the aircraft as it was burning I was pretty thank-ful that I was in the Apache because of the impact, the structure, the cockpit, and the crash survivability. I was very happy to actually have been in the Apache because when ear-lier aircraft were shot down in Iraq, it never seemed that most people walked away. n

Chief WArrAnt offiCer 4 sCott sMAll

When you’re getting shot at your first response is “Are they really shooting at me?” Then you realize that we were in an Apache Longbow. It never failed; it brought me home. So I had the highest confidence . . . I felt like we made a difference to the ground troops when we were able to arrive on scene and support them in their time of need . . . When you’re flying a combat mission your training kicks in and you respond within your ability with the training that you’ve had. your focus is intense and you’re ready to do the job at hand . . . I wouldn’t fly any other aircraft but the Apache Longbow in combat. n

CAptAin erik spArks

The mission that earned me the Air Medal for valor was my first engagement in Iraq. We’d been there for five months in support of troop operations when we got the call while we were helping recover two soldiers who had been taken captive in Baghdad. We had been flying for 6½ hours when we got the call to respond to a unit being engaged with small arms and mortar fire that had one soldier wounded. When we arrived, we knew where the friendly position was. The first pass we could not find the enemy. On the second pass we started the engagement – small arms fire and approximately 10 different points of origin. At

that point we started engaging and suppressing the enemy. That engagement lasted about an hour. We released over 200 rounds of 30mm, and fired multiple rockets. When I left for Iraq I had 250 flight hours. When I got back from Iraq I had over 1,000 hours. I logged over 750 hours of combat time. Everyone I served with was amazing. They laid their lives on the line every day for people they don’t even know. If I had to go back to Iraq, I would absolutely go back in an Apache Longbow. n

As American soldiers fight in Afghani-stan and Iraq, they continue to de-pend on AH-64D Apache Longbow

helicopters for protection. Units flying Apache helicopters are

needed to suppress aggressors, protect troops transporting people and equipment, support coalition forces, respond to ground commanders’ urgent needs and even to evacuate downed and injured pilots from battle zones.

And Apache Longbow’s performance in combat continues to be stellar. Apaches have logged more than 400,000 combined

combat flight hours while maintaining high mission capable rates. From senior Army leaders to soldiers on the ground, confi-dence is high in the Apache’s ability to get the job done.

“The aircraft is healthy and performing well in combat,” said Colonel Derek Pa-quette, U.S. Army Apache project manager.

Army units with Apaches have been de-ploying to Iraq and Afghanistan since early 2002 with many battalions serving two or even three tours of duty. At the end of 2007, there were more than 100 Apaches deployed, with equipment moving in and

out of theater for upgrades, modification or repair.

“no battalion comes back from the warfight and returns in the same configu-ration,” said Colonel Mark Hayes, Army Training and Doctrine Command capa-bility manager, reconnaissance/Attack. “Because the warfighter brings back les-sons learned – he brings back additional requirements. We’re always looking for a way to make force protection and surviv-ability the cornerstone to protecting our crews.” n

u.s. ArMY And reserVe CoMponents

24/7

18EIghTEEN

DEFENDINGFREEDOM

19NINETEEN

FIgHT tErrorISm

u.s. Army Active and reserve Component unitsbACk froM irAQ1st Battalion, 151st Aviation Regiment, South Carolina National Guard – Eastover

1st Battalion, 149th Aviation Regiment, Texas National Guard – Houston

8th Battalion, 229th Aviation Regiment, Kentucky Reserve – Fort Knox

B Troop, 7th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, Texas Reserve – Conroe

1st Battalion, 501st Aviation Regiment – Fort Hood, Texas

1st Battalion, 1st Aviation Regiment – Fort Riley, Kan.

2nd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment – Illesheim, Germany

3rd Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment – Fort Campbell, Ky.

4th Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment – Fort Hood, Texas

1st Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment – Fort Campbell, Ky. *

6th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment – Illesheim, Germany

2nd Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment – Fort Campbell, Ky. *

3rd Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment – Fort Campbell, Ky.

4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment – Fort Hood, Texas *

1st Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment – Fort Hood, Texas *

3rd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment – Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.

Company C, 1st Battalion, 151st Aviation Regiment, Mississippi National Guard, Tupelo

Company A, 1st Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment, Missouri National Guard, Whiteman

Air Force Base

And in Iraq as of October 2007:

1st Battalion, 82nd Aviation Regiment – Fort Bragg, N.C.

4th Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment – Fort Hood, Texas

1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment – Fort Hood, Texas *

1st Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment – Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. *

2nd Battalion, 159th Aviation Regiment – Illesheim, Germany

*Denotes multiple deployments under unit designation

At of the end of 2007, the U.S. Army had 15 active units, nine guard units and two reserve units flying Apache helicopters. Of the 10 international customers that have selected Apaches, two – The netherlands and the United Kingdom – have operated helicopters in support of the global War on Terror-ism. Other Apaches are deployed for national security and peacekeeping missions, demonstrating the versatil-ity of the helicopter. And the helicopter is durable – the United States fleet of Apaches has logged more than two million flight hours.

u.s. Army Active and reserve Component unitsbACk froM AfghAnistAn3rd Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment – Fort Campbell, Ky.

1st Battalion, 229th Aviation Regiment – Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.

3rd Battalion, 229th Aviation Regiment – Fort Bragg, N.C.

1st Battalion, 130th Aviation Regiment, North Carolina National Guard – Morrisville

Company B, 1st Battalion, 111th Aviation Regiment, Florida National Guard – Jacksonville

1st Battalion, 211th Aviation Regiment, Utah National Guard – West Jordan

1st Battalion, 183rd Aviation Regiment, Idaho National Guard – Boise

C Troop, 7th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, Texas Reserve – Conroe

R Troop, 4/278th, Tennessee National Guard – Jackson

2nd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment – Illesheim, Germany

And in Afghanistan as of October 2007:

1st Battalion, 285th Aviation Regiment, Arizona National Guard – Marana

Army reserve Components continue to join active U.S. Army units on the front lines in their Apaches. The list of citizen soldiers continues to grow.

national guard and reserve Component soldiers regularly play important roles in the defense of freedom.

InTErnATIOnAL APACHES LOggED THEIr MOST VISIBLE WOrLDWIDE PrESEnCE In 2007, WITH InTErnATIOnAL OPErATOrS STEPPIng UP THEIr SUPPOrT OF PEACEKEEP-Ing OPErATIOnS, ACCEPTIng nEW AIrCrAFT AnD PLAn-nIng FOr THE FUTUrE. InTErnATIOnAL APACHES WErE KEPT BUSy WITH PEACEKEEPIng MISSIOnS, nATIOnAL DEFEnSE InITIATIVES AnD VITAL TrAInIng ACTIVITIES. THE STOrIES On THE FOLLOWIng PAgES ILLUSTrATE THE gLOBAL PrESEnCE THE APACHE IS MAInTAInIng In DEFEnSE OF FrEEDOM.

INTERNATIONAL

UPDATES

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21TwENTy-ONE

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rnlAf ApAChes – 10 YeArs of serViCeThe royal netherlands Air Force celebrated its 10th anniversary of service with AH-64 Apache helicopters recently with the world watching the rnLAF continue to support peacekeeping operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. With the activation of the first Dutch Apache squadron (301 redskin squadron) in january 1997, the AH-64 Apache helicopter officially entered service with the rnLAF. At that time the service started operations with 12 AH-64As leased from U.S. Army surplus stock, which later were replaced by 30 brand new AH-64Ds. The first AH-64D was officially delivered in a ceremony at Boeing’s Mesa plant in May 1998. With the arrival of the first aircraft at home base, gilze-rijen, in july 1999, a second Apache squadron (302 Hawkeye squadron) was formed. The first deployment for Dutch Apaches started in 1998 when two AH-64As were attached to a U.S. Army Apache unit in Bosnia as part of Stabilization Force peacekeeping duties. In 2001 the rnLAF became the first service to deploy the AH-64D. Four aircraft were sent to Djibouti to protect Dutch soldiers operating in Ethiopia and Eritrea. In 2004, Apaches were deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq and returned home a year later without having to fire a single shot in combat operations in 2005. Dutch Apaches were sent again to Afghanistan for a two-year stay. rnLAF Apaches have been involved in various peacekeeping operations. In the past 10 years the squadron has flown more than 20,000 hours, including about 4,000 in The netherlands and 6,000 for operations and training abroad.

Report from Edwin de Greeuw of the Apache Research Group in The Netherlands.

greeCe All AH-64D new-build aircraft were delivered to greece on time and will complement the current AH-64A fleet.

JApAn japan’s Apache program is continuing to move forward, with production flight testing under way in japan. japan’s Fuji Heavy Industries and Boeing are working together on production of new helicopters for the japanese government.

kuWAit Six Boeing-built AH-64D Apache Longbow multi-role combat helicopters for the Kuwait Air Force debuted in Kuwait in 2007. The helicopters are part of a 16-aircraft order signed in 2002 between Kuwait’s Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Department of Defense. Kuwait is the seventh international defense force to select the AH-64D and the 11th Apache customer worldwide. See related story on pages 38 and 39.

sAudi ArAbiASaudi Arabia is working on upgrades for its AH-64A fleet and is expected to be under contract in 2008 through a Foreign Military Sales agreement. Saudi Arabia is the final member of the original five international AH-64A Apache operators to elect to upgrade to the AH-64D or order new ones to supplement their fleets.

united ArAb eMirAtesWork was under way in 2007 for the United Arab Emirates’ Apache fleet to be upgraded to the Apache Longbow configuration after the contract was signed as part of a combined U.S. Army contract for 96 remanufactured Apaches. The upgraded helicopters are expected to be delivered over the next several years.

united kingdoMThe United Kingdom’s successes with its Apache AH Mk1 aircraft are encapsulated on pages 24-37.

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egYptiAn Air forCe MoVes forWArd With reMAnufACtured Ah-64d ApAChesWith all 35 AH-64D Apaches for the Egyptian Air Force delivered by the end of 2006, the Apache Team turned its focus to sustaining the newly modernized fleet. In April 2007, Boeing hosted the 19th Egyptian Air Force Program Management review (PMr) in Mesa Arizona. “By the time the PMr was held, the EAF had already flown more than 5,000 hours in its AH-64Ds,” said Tom Haynie, manager of the Egyptian Air Force Program for Boeing. “Everything we’ve heard from the Egyptian Air Force has been extremely positive.” Haynie added that during the PMr general Omer Sabana, the 119th Helicopter Division commander, expressed satisfaction on behalf of the Egyptian Air Force Apache unit commanders with the AH-64D Attack Helicopter and Boeing overall support of the EAF. The meet-ing resulted in an action to extend Boeing’s post-production support contract, including contractor field service representatives, and D-model-unique in several areas. The meeting also reviewed progress on a new Longbow Crew Trainer being manufactured at Boeing-St Louis. Delivery to the Egyptian Air Force is scheduled for january 2009. “The additional of the LCT will provide another avenue for the EAF Apache helicopter crews to hone their individual flying and fight-ing capabilities,” Haynie added.

The Egyptian Air Force has already logged more than 5,000 hours in its AH-64D helicopters. Deliveries were completed at the end of 2006.

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As Apache soldiers from the British Army’s 9 regiment marched across the historic bridge in Boroughbridge,

U.K., for the last time in july 2007, local residents cheered for their returning heroes.

The soldiers of 656 and 664 Squad-ron, 9 regiment, many who had been to Afghanistan with their Apache AH Mk1 helicopters multiple times in the past year, were moving the Apache unit from Dish-forth Airfield in the north England town of Boroughbridge to its new headquarters at Wattisham Airfield to the southeast.

Their march across the bridge, where the Battle of Boroughbridge was fought in 1322, was a symbol of pride for the com-munity. The bridge has changed and is no longer wooden as it was when King Ed-ward II’s army battled rebel forces, but the emotion for the soldiers remains.

While 9 regiment has completed two tours of duty in Afghanistan, Apache sol-diers from 3 regiment were in Afghanistan in late 2007 with plans for more soldiers to stay in the country for many more months. U.K. Apache units have logged thousands of hours in Afghanistan. Their optempo has exceeded expectations and their presence has been welcomed by the soldiers on the ground they are helping to protect.

Their Apaches, produced by prime con-tractor AgustaWestland and lead subcon-tractor Boeing, have served these soldiers well.

Their stories, told on the pages that follow, are typical of the success stories from Apache units in the U.S. Army and a growing number of international defense forces that have served in Afghanistan. Once again, they tell the tale of a powerful combat tool – the Apache – that is making a difference in peacekeeping operations. And while tensions mount, the soldiers in the air who protect soldiers on the ground are gaining confidence in their abilities to make a difference.

Of particular pride in the U.K. is that soldiers were trained by Aviation Training International Limited. That story is told on pages 32-35.

And field training efforts, many con-ducted in Arizona in terrain like that in Afghanistan, are providing unique benefits for Apache units going to Afghanistan. See story on pages 30 and 31.

gary Bishop, director of U.S. Apache Programs for The Boeing Company, and the first U.K. Apache Program manager, traveled to Dishforth to honor returning soldiers. At a special ceremony, he said: “The world remains an uncertain place. Both of our countries have troops in harm’s way and probably will have for some time. Thank you for your professionalism, your courage, your bravery, your sacrifice, your steadfastness and your willingness to sup-port an ally. This is a special relationship between our countries.” n

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British Apaches ventured into the field for the first time in 2007, join-ing an international defense force keeping the peace in Afghanistan.

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“OUr PErFOrMAnCE In AFgHAnISTAn WAS A TEAM EFFOrT.”– Lieutenant Colonel Neil Sexton

British Apache AH Mk1 aircraft are the pride of the British Army, which is continuing to expand the role of the combat helicopter.

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lieutenant Commander david, an Apache pilot said that during one of his four-month tours Apaches provided security for the rede-velopment of the Helmand province of Afghanistan. “While we did some firing against insurgents, most of the missions were successful be-cause Apaches were there. We often didn’t encounter enemy action. We were impressed by the Apache’s performance in Afghanistan. It did all that we expected and more. The squadron, all agreed, benefited from the unit’s close working relationship. Everybody relies on teamwork, especially during operations where you have to trust the man next to you to do his job under stress. I think people do their jobs in the military for the person next to them because they have established that relationship and they know they cannot let the other person down.”

Captain rory, an Apache pilot in 9 regiment, called the Apache’s performance “second to none.” “I don’t think anyone in the squadron would have wanted to fly another helicopter in theatre,” he said. “One mission stuck out in my mind as a testament to what the Apache is capable of doing. It was 4 o’clock in the morning, pitch black, no moonlight, low clouds and extremely heavy rain. We managed to lift off on time and fly low-level without any lights in formation across the desert. We were over our target area at exactly the right time . . . to support troops on the ground. It was an exciting morning with some punchy flying, but the aircraft allowed us to achieve that mission successfully.”

Corporal Mark, a maintainer who served in Afghanistan, recalled one particular mission that drew a response from ground troops. “Three weeks after the mission, I was talking to a couple of Marines and when they found out I was with the Army Air Corps, they shook my hand and said, ‘Thanks for what you’ve been doing.’ They were thankful and it showed.”

Captain Adam, an Apache pilot, recalled the historic rescue attempt by a British Apache just a week before his 2007 deployment. “The rescue attempt by the British Apaches in january was a high point for us as an Apache unit,” he said. “It just shows how flexible we can be with aviation, and modern attack aircraft doesn’t always have to be used in an attack role.”

Airtrooper Jonathan, an Apache ground crewman, noted that the Apache was essential in supporting troops on the ground. “If it wasn’t for the Apache they could have had more casualties and maybe not succeeded in completing some of their missions.”

Major paul, an Apache maintainer based previously at Dishforth Airfield, said, “The most important thing about the Apache is redundancy. you can use systems on every part of the aircraft and know there is a backup. That is the greatest level of confidence that you could possibly hope for. The Apache rescue generated an awareness of the aircraft’s capabilities and of the efforts of our unit in fielding it. And with it came a widespread respect for what the aircraft was capable of in its traditional roles and for the flexibility and courage of the crews who were operating it. Climbing into an aircraft, which is so capable and so well protected is a tremendous asset to my team and to our families. you can go about your business knowing that there is hardly anyone in the air or on the ground who has a greater sense of confidence in the system that they’re operating.” n

the soldiers’ stories: A rEMArKABLE AIrCrAFT PErFOrMSEditor’s note: For security reasons, some of the soldiers from 9 Regiment are identified only by their ranks and first names.

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Performance of the Apache in Afghanistan demonstrated that it did exactly what it was advertised to do. It is a fantastic aircraft. It reacted and performed as we expected.

Training in Arizona involved 3 Army Air Corps. Arizona is an even better location than earlier sites in the Middle East and has become the model we’ve adopted for pre-deployment training. All of the pilots will go through this six week exercise in Arizona, which is exactly what we need to take people into the operation in Afghanistan. And they almost think that it’s training continued because the operation is so similar to the training they’ve just completed.

We’re working alongside our colleagues in the international security assistance force in the regional command south which is a north Atlantic Treaty Organization command part of the organi-zation in Kabul. We’re in Kandahar Air Field and the U.K. Apache organization makes up part of the joint Helicopter Force Afghani-stan, which is a British helicopter force with Chinook, Apache and Lynx helicopters. And the jHFA headquarters is in Kandahar but

most of the U.K. Apaches are in Camp Bastion in Helmand province, which is the busiest and the most kinetic part of operations in southern Afghanistan.

Operating alongside the Apaches from the Dutch and the American forces in southern Afghanistan has been great because it’s a new deployment for us with a new aircraft and we are learning all the time. Beside us on the pad at Kandahar Airfield we had the American Apache force, but most importantly we had their technicians with all the experience they had. They gave us a great deal of assistance, in terms of the knowledge and contacts in the industry.

We operate our Apaches in Afghanistan in a similar fashion to the way the Dutch operate theirs, but we operate differently from our American colleagues for a number of reasons. When I was there as the commander of the joint helicopter force in Afghani-stan we operated on two major missions alongside task force Corsair and the U.S. aviation task force and completed two bat-talion level air assault operations where we had U.K. and the U.S. Apaches operating in the same battle space supporting U.K. and U.S. Chinook aircraft depositing soldiers and equipment for Task Force Fury, the American theatre reserve, into the Sagan Valley, in an immensely difficult environment; it went very successfully.

I think the most telling comment came after the Apache res-cue attempt last year. The action resulted in four of my aircrew receiving national awards in 2007 – Distinguished Flying Crosses and Military Crosses. After that mission I was walking around Camp Bastion and I was approached by a Warrant Officer in the royal Marines who said to me, “What on earth did we do before we had the Apache?” I think that says it for me. This is an aircraft which is now part of our inventory and it is busy all the time; ev-eryone wants more of the Apache. When we use it, it has an im-mediate effect on the morale of the troops we’re supporting.

The training we’ve had through Aviation Training International Ltd. (ATIL) and the contacts with AgustaWestland and Boeing have been first rate, and it’s been fantastic having here on my regimental base an ATIL organization with the field deployable simulator in a building next to two squadron locations. I think they feel quite proud that they’ve delivered good training to us.

Our performance in Afghanistan was a team effort. We’re 580 people in this regiment and there are 16 Apache pilots in the theatre at a time. The ground crews who support in a technical sense and in arming, reloading and refueling, getting it airborne in a very austere environment in Camp Bastion, 50 degrees Celsius temperature in the middle of the summer . . . those indi-viduals have delivered on operations exactly as I had hoped and I’m immensely proud of them. They’ve working hard and they’ve come back from the operation with no losses and no damage to any aircraft, and most importantly no damage to people.

returning from Afghanistan after such a successful tour, hav-ing deployed the U.K.’s first operational Apache squadrons, this regiment is immensely proud of what it has done – and especially since it comes at the start of the Army Air Corps 50th anniversary year in September 2007. n

thoughts About AfghAnistAn: LIEUTEnAnT COLOnEL nEIL SExTOnCOMMAnDIng OFFICEr OF 9 rEgIMEnT, BrITISH ArMy AIr COrPS

British soldiers from 9 regiment march through the streets of Boroughbridge, United Kingdom, bidding farewell to their home in near-by Dishforth Airfield. All Apaches are now based in Wattisham Airfield to the east.

The punishing, mountainous terrain of Afghanistan may be thousands of miles from Mesa, Ariz., but just

70 miles down the road from the Boeing Apache production facility in the tiny des-ert community of gila Bend, the British Army has found an acceptable surrogate landscape for training.

not exactly “home away from home,” but dust and heat were exactly what the British Army wanted.

It’s there, at the Barry M. goldwa-ter range, the British Army has trained Apache AH Mk1 combat helicopter air and ground crews for potential service in

Afghanistan and other hot spots around the world. British Apaches and their sup-port crews are already on a peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan.

To prepare for ongoing deployment in that region, the British Army sends AH Mk 1 Apaches – the equivalent to AH-64D Apache Longbows with only minor differ-ences in the basic design – to Arizona for training duty.

The helicopters are among 67 pro-duced by AgustaWestland in the United Kingdom as prime contractor and Boeing rotorcraft Systems in Mesa, the home of Boeing’s Apache production programs.

Fate, or simply the high/hot appeal of gila Bend, brought the British Army Apaches back to Arizona where they began.

The production program ended a few years ago, but Boeing continues to sup-port the British Apache program with a team in the United Kingdom and program office employees in Mesa who help keep their Apaches maintained and keep spares flowing.

“Apache is an evolving aircraft and working closely with AgustaWestland and the British Army helps to ensure they have the right systems in place and that we have a solid understanding of what’s need-

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Working in the Arizona desert heat helps prepare British soldiers for similar weather in Afghanistan.

the terrAin surrounding THE gOLDWATEr rAngE In ArIzOnA HAS gIVEn BrITISH ArMy PILOTS AnD MAInTEnAnCE CrEWS A CHAnCE TO TrAIn In An EnVIrOnMEnT SIMILAr TO THE OnE CrEWS ExPErIEnCE In AFgHAnISTAn.

The Union jack on the helmet of British Army pilots shows off their pride to be associated with the Apache.

ed in future upgrades,” said jerry Horgan, manager of the U.K. Apache program at The Boeing Company. “Having actual Brit-ish Apaches in Arizona makes it that much easier to build strong relationships for the future.”

The terrain surrounding the goldwater range has given British Army pilots and maintenance crews a chance to train in

an environment similar to the one experi-ence in Afghanistan. Typically, around 250 soldiers are in the training process at one time.

The soldiers spend three months at the Western Army Aviation Training Site in Marana, Ariz., 30 miles south of gila Bend. There, they train with the national guard experts and prepare for the firing exercises

that take them into the field for days at a time. In the summer, the weather passes 100 degrees Fahrenheit, similar to the temperatures in Afghanistan, making the entire package in Arizona the ideal spot for training. n

British Apache AH Mk1 aircraft have found a home training in gila Bend, near the Boeing Apache factory where their production began.

Successes in Afghanistan by British Army Apache AH Mk1 crews have Aviation Training International Limited (ATIL) in-structors beaming with pride.

After all, the training for British Army pilots and ground crews began at ATIL’s U.K. facilities in Middle Wallop, Arborfield, Wat-tisham and Dishforth.

And whether they’re talking about the famous mission where a British Apache was used to deploy soldiers for an historic rescue attempt or simply ensuring that flight and ground crews are suc-cessful when crews lift off or land, the sense of accomplishment remains the same.

“It’s as if a part of me were there with them,” said Stewart Burgess, chief instructor at ATIL’s Middle Wallop facility. “They

began their Apache training right here in our training center. I think they learned their lessons well.”

ATIL is a 50-50 joint venture company between The Boeing Company and AgustaWestland. The company was formed in 1998 to support the Apache AH Mk1 by providing a fully integrated attack helicopter training service for the British Army.

A range of equipment, simulators and trainers at ATIL facili-ties is used to represent the Apache’s sophisticated systems. The equipment is based on full-size aircraft systems and provides a high degree of fidelity, offering the necessary tactile and visual cues, greatly reducing the need to use operational aircraft. Con-stant investment by ATIL in technology insertions ensures the training system remains one of the most up to date in the world.

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ATIL Chief Instructor Stewart Burgess gives an on-board lesson from the pilot’s seat of the

Apache Full Mission Simulator at Middle Wallop.

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“ATIL holds a unique position in being able to provide fully integrated classroom and synthetic training for air crew, ground crew and maintenance personnel,” said Michael O’Donoghue, head of Business Acquisition. “There are a small number of Apache flying instructors who teach on the live aircraft.

“ATIL is the only provider of Apache AH Mk1 training services in Europe and is well placed to exploit its experience in providing total training solutions for complex military systems to a wider audience,” he said.

“Many of ATIL’s instructors have exten-sive operational experience, meaning that our training comes from first-hand experi-ence and is not based on theory alone,” he added.

“ATIL offers a range of courses de-signed to provide aircraft, avionics and armament engineering staff with the skills to keep the Apache flying,” said Burgess. “We use a combination of advanced in-structor led classroom media, computer based training, a full emulation of the aircraft and a range of sophisticated main-

tenance training devices. The students are trained to understand the aircraft systems, diagnose and repair faults and carry out functional tests.”

Engineering training is centred at ATIL’s purpose built Maintenance Training Cen-ter at Arborfield, but all elements of the training, less the use of the maintenance training devices, can be delivered at each of ATIL’s other Training Centers. The Main-tenance Training Equipment comprises a number of devices, designed to represent

the complex systems that reside within the Apache.

From weapons to avionics, each device allows maintainers to familiarize them-selves with some of the most advanced technology in the world. They can carry out a range of functional test, diagnostic rou-tines and removal and replacement tasks, using the Interactive Electronic Technical Publications and special tools in a realistic maintenance environment. The suite of equipment has been designed to support theory training and to allow assessment of those essential skills required by an Apache maintainer.

“It’s easy to understand how our train-ers feel about their students,” Burgess added. “They feel as if a part of them goes into the field with each soldier.” n

Successes in Afghanistan by British Army Apache AH Mk1 crews have Aviation Training International Ltd. instructors beaming with pride.

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right: Andy Wheatley, ATIL’s groundschool senior instructor at Middle Wallop, discusses key mes-sages with his students.

Whether it’s in classrooms, simulators or part-task trainers, the ATIL experts put their students through their paces with unmatched expertise. Most are former aviators or maintainers with years of experience that is being shared with young aviators preparing for assignments around the world.

To AgustaWestland’s Dave Vincent, future plans to maintain the United Kingdom’s Apache fleet is a “phenomenal oppor-tunity for responsiveness.”

And Vincent’s counterparts at Boeing’s AgustaWestland office in yeovil, U.K., agree; a long-term Future Support Arrangement being proposed to the Ministry of Defence will benefit the British Army, AgustaWestland, Boeing and the rest of Team U.K. Apache.

Boeing, AgustaWestland and other Apache program compa-nies have formed an industrial alliance to offer the British Army a comprehensive Performance Based Logistics program that will ensure consistent availability of the U.K.’s Apache AH Mk1 helicopters for the next two decades. A decision on the future support arrangements is expected in the next few months.

“This long-term, full-service program gives the team more op-portunities to enhance the value and responsiveness of aircraft sup-port,” said Vincent, AgustaWest-land’s head of Customer Service for Apache. “It reduces delays associ-ated with our current processes, and many other processes.”

Like other Boeing Support Sys-tems efforts for Chinook and C-17, the Apache program is part of a new wave of efficient and effec-tive Performance Based Logistics operations.

“With this new Performance-Based Logistics operation, AgustaWestland and Boeing employees are playing equal leadership roles, an approach that allows Boeing and AgustaWestland to use their collective expertise to meet the British Army’s needs,” Vincent added.

john Wilson, who is leading the Boeing U.K. Apache Future Support Arrangement Program, recently moved to the U.K. from Arizona to demonstrate the company’s commitment to the project.

Wilson said this significant commitment will ultimately employ more engineers and logistic support personnel who will be col-located with the British Army and AgustaWestland teammates in the U.K.

“We will combine technical support, repair and overhaul, spares, manufacturing licensing, modifications and ultimately,

training operations under one integrated program,” he said. “This approach could prove effective for other Apache customers who have been contracting more traditional support approaches for decades.”

Don Brubaker, who leads the current Boeing team at AgustaWestland, sees the value in the international team effort.

“The Boeing U.K. team provides technical assistance services and engineering design support with a dedicated team of engi-neers and logistics specialists,” he said. “The team provides criti-

cal design authority support to both AgustaWestland and the Ministry of Defence, which operate the U.K.’s Apaches. The team continues to develop and integrate its processes with those of the MoD and Agus-taWestland to provide an improved service to the customer.”

Brad Flippin, a member of the Boeing team in yeovil, adds, “Our greatest contribution to the future of the program is maintaining cus-tomer satisfaction and upholding the reputation that Boeing has estab-lished in the U.K.

Mario gerardo, a Boeing contract field service representative located at Wattisham Airfield and a mem-ber of the program since the U.K. Apache was fielded at the School of Army Aviation in Middle Wallop, provides field service represen-tative support to all U.K. Apache

regiments and civilian contractors to, including squadrons on de-ployed operations.

“Our interface with the Boeing U.K. Engineering team has proven effective in helping the British Army solve field mainte-nance issues and aircraft discrepancies,” he said.

Vincent noted that the teaming effort is bringing changes to the yeovil operation. “We’re applying lean processes and forming a seamless operation that will ensure the British Army has the use of Apaches when needed, whatever the call to duty.

“It truly is a phenomenal opportunity for responsiveness,” he added. “And this team is ready for the future.” n

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Boeing’s Apache team at the AgustaWestland facility in yeovil includes, back row from left, john Wilson, Don Brubaker and Brad Flippin. In front from left are Mark Bertsch, Bryan Dusek, Sylvia Bates and randy Lennox.

All 16 Boeing-built AH-64D Apache Longbow multi-role combat helicop-ters for the Kuwait Air Force have

been delivered and are in service. The first Apache Longbows, which de-

buted in Kuwait on March 6, 2007, during a rollout ceremony, were quickly followed by the remaining aircraft. The U.S. Army delivered the aircraft to the Kuwait Air Force over the past several months through a foreign military sales contract. Twelve of the aircraft are in Kuwait while four remain in the U.S. for training of pilots and ground crews.

The helicopters are part of an order signed in 2002 between Kuwait’s Minis-try of Defense and the U.S. Department of Defense. Boeing is working closely with the Kuwait Air Force on maintenance of the new Kuwaiti fleet. A team of Support Systems maintenance technicians are pro-viding in-country support to ensure that the Kuwaiti pilots are ready for their flight as-signments every day. (See related story on pages 40 and 41.)

Kuwait was the seventh international defense force to select the AH-64D and the 11th Apache customer worldwide.

“Delivery of these Apache Longbow air-craft on schedule for the Kuwait Air Force reinforces our ‘Promises Made – Promises Kept’ commitment to our customers and further strengthens the long-term customer relationships we have in this region,” said Tommy Filler, director of Boeing Interna-tional Apache Programs. During the rollout ceremony in Kuwait, Boeing Vice President Al Winn presented an oil painting featuring a rendering of a Kuwait Air Force Apache Longbow to Sheikh jaber Mubarak Al-Ha-mad Al-Sabah, First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Minister of Interiors.

“It is Boeing’s goal to ensure that our Ku-wait customer has the support it needs to ef-fectively operate and maintain this important asset,” he said. “We remain committed to fulfilling that promise.” n

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UPDATESBoeing Vice President Al Winn meets with Sheikh jaber Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah during the Kuwait Apache delivery ceremony.

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From the beginning, the Kuwait Air Force wanted more-than-typical sup-port from Boeing in maintaining its

new AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopters.Boeing saw this need as a way to get

an important customer up to speed on maintenance of its Apaches while creating expanded Support Systems opportunities throughout the Apache program. The result is helping both the Kuwait Air Force and Boeing.

Work is under way in Kuwait, where the first six of Kuwait’s 16 Apache Longbows debuted in February 2007 at Ali Al-Salem Air Base, home of the KAF Apache fleet. The Kuwait Apache plan marks new capa-bility for Support Systems. The remainder of the Kuwaiti fleet was in place last year.

“We’re enabling a new customer to achieve its defense goals without the growing pains usually associated with fielding a new aircraft,” said Dave Coon, Support Systems program manager for Kuwait. “And we’ve added a new capability to our portfolio.”

What makes this effort unusual? Typi-cally, Boeing provides a mix of contrac-

tor field-support representatives and logistics experts, who help Boeing’s 10 other Apache customers with maintenance needs. Some customers, such as the U.S. Army, perform maintenance themselves or contract with companies to do it.

In Kuwait, a total package was created to ensure that Kuwaiti Apaches are ready to fly when needed. Since the Kuwaitis are new at Apache maintenance, an augmen-tation team has been created to meet the KAF’s needs while its soldiers gain the expertise to maintain the world’s most ca-pable combat helicopter.

“We have brought together our stan-dard support package, including spares, repairs and technical support, with our highly skilled Maintenance Augmenta-tion Team (MAT) and Sustainment Data System,” said Coon. “We’ll be training the Kuwaitis to do the maintenance and understand what it takes to support the Apache. But for a long time, we’ll be tak-ing the lead on just about every aspect of maintenance.”

Success in Kuwait could mean oppor-tunities on other Apache programs.

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“The next time a maintenance contract is opened to competi-tion, Boeing will look seriously at competing,” said Brad Actipis, who manages the overall Boeing Support Systems Apache efforts worldwide. “As the original equipment manufacturer, we provide unique capabilities such as engineering, supplier management and maintenance expertise that other companies will never have. We have the ability to directly affect change in all areas if something is needed quickly.”

The people handling the work are looking forward to meeting

the challenge. “I always enjoy new experiences,” said Thomas Mc-Manus, the MAT Operation Manager in Kuwait. “This one promises to be extremely satisfying because we’re doing something for the Boeing Apache that has never been done before.”

joe Belin, an AH-64D Flight Line Technician on the MAT, has been working on the Apache for more than eight years, including a year as a soldier in Iraq in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. “This is the best attack helicopter in the world,” he said. n

The Boeing support team in Kuwait is working closely with the Kuwait Air Force to ensure that the new Kuwait Apache Longbows are ready for operations when needed.

For more than a decade, the Hellenic Army has been flying combat-proven AH-64A Apaches, logging a flawless record that qualifies the soldiers who fly and maintain their Apaches

for championship status.And that’s a fitting tribute to the land where the Olympics were

born and where the greeks’ national pride ranks high in impor-tance every day.

As one greek Apache pilot said recently, “If the Apache were a competitor in the Olympic games that started thousands of years ago here in greece, the Apache would be a gold-medal winner.” The Hellenic Army put its skills to work flying key missions during the 2004 Olympic games in Athens, quietly protecting the nation without much fanfare.

Those who fly Apaches know what it’s like to be number one in your category, whether you’re an athlete, a pilot or a maintainer.

One unit commander recalled, “When we started flying Apaches back in 1995, most of us thought it would be a big step and wondered if we would succeed. It took a lot of effort and our training helped us succeed.”

george Philips, the Boeing Hellenic Army Apache program manager, agrees.

“I have the privilege of being the Boeing program manager for the Hellenic Army’s Apaches,” he said. “Over the past 12 years, I’ve watched with pride as the Hellenic Army took possession of the aircraft and successfully incorporated them into their defense structure.

“Since my father, grandfather and grandmother were greek and because I still have a strong family presence in greece (My-tylene, Patmos, and Athens). I wish the Hellenic Army the best of luck and look forward to the upgrading of their A-Models to the newer, more capable and robust configuration in the near future.”

Andy Callaway, a Boeing Field Service representative, agrees that the greek Apaches are champions.

“The greek Army has been fielding Apaches for more than a decade,” he said. “They’ve been flying for years without an ac-cident, a record I know they are extremely proud of that record. They do great work and they’re very aware of what needs to be done. The pride they have in their aircraft is amazing. They’re con-stantly looking at them, checking them out, making sure things are OK. The Hellenic Army is very focused on making sure that its aircraft are in the best shape possible. That’s the epitome of a winner in my book.” n

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AnOTHEr EPIC TALE IN tHE mAkINGHEllENIC ArmYolYmPIC APACHES rEvISItED

Over the past 12 years, I’ve watched with pride as the Hellenic Army took possession of the aircraft and successfully incorporated them into their defense structure.– George Philips, Boeing Hellenic Army Apache Program Manager

greek Apaches are champions in the eyes of the soldiers who fly and maintain them.

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Delivery of the first new AH-64D Apache Longbows to defense forces in Kuwait and greece in 2007 capped

another outstanding year for Apache, and 2008 is shaping up for more great opportunities.

That’s the view of Tom Cunningham, manager of International rotorcraft Busi-ness Development for Boeing, who is look-ing forward to a series of new sales pros-pects around the world.

“With 10 international defense forces flying Apache helicopters, the aircraft’s visi-bility is impressive,” he said. “new custom-ers are on the horizon along with upgrades for current Apache operators.”

Saudi Arabia, which has flown AH-64A Apaches since the 1990s, is the next Apache operator to move to modernized AH-64Ds.

Saudi Arabia is the fifth and final AH-64A Apache operator to convert to D-Mod-els or order new Ds to augment their fleets. Egypt and the United Arab Emirates are upgrading, while greece has ordered new Ds. Israel has ordered a combination of new and upgraded next-generation Apaches.

“There are opportunities for many more Apache helicopters around the world,”

Cunningham said. “The Apache has been developed with the future in mind. Those flying earlier versions have a built-in road-map to future upgrades. Those who join the Apache family know that enhance-ments now and in the future will ensure dominance for all missions for decades to come.”

Although new Apache Longbow heli-copters will outperform current models, which already offer features unmatched by competitors, Cunningham encourages customers to see their aircraft as “works in progress.”

“Apache Longbow is the world’s most advanced attack helicopter,” he said. “And the Apache Longbow Team, which brings together our industrial and military part-ners, is working daily to ensure that the aircraft remains the best.”

Being a part of the future today is critical to long-term success for Apache operators worldwide. Planning for the future today will ensure success for years to come.” n

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There are opportunities for many more Apache helicopters around the world, says Tom Cunningham, manager of International rotorcraft Business Development for Boeing.

Team members do quality inspections and retrofits, break down and set up Apaches for air shows and often follow aircraft to foreign countries to continue maintenance and safety checks until they are handed over to their buyers.

“This team is invaluable to the upkeep of the Apaches,” said Delivery Center Manager Michael Burke. “They are out on the road, and able to live and stay in any conditions. They have to pack up and leave at a moment’s notice, often staying places for weeks.

“They operate and maintain the aircraft the same way a mili-tary unit would, doing everything from software installation to sheet metal work and wire repairs,” he said. “They know how to work as a team and are some of the best mechanics I have ever seen.”

Two team members stayed with troops on a base in Iraq re-cently to provide maintenance and modifications on some aircraft, Burke said.

“I love this job,” Lange said. “I never know from day to day what I will be doing.”

One challenge for Allen included working an air show in Dubai. The crew, including a team from Engineering Flight Test, packed an Apache into a C-17 for transport, stopped in Saudi Arabia on the way home for an Apache demonstration for the government, which required unpacking the aircraft, readying it for flight, per-forming the demonstration then packing it up again all within 24 hours.

“It’s a unique job and always exciting,” Allen said. n

Apache helicopter flight technician and crew chief Chris Allen’s job recently took him to England, Korea, Spain, Turkey, greece, japan

and the Middle East. Allen can be called upon to go anywhere at any

time. His teammate Bill Lange, an Apache flight line technician, spent a month overseas maintaining Apache Longbows for one customer prior to accep-tance of the new aircraft.

There’s never a dull moment for Boeing’s 24-member Apache Delivery Center team at the Boeing rotorcraft Systems site in Mesa, Ariz.

“They are an awesome, incredible team ready and willing to go anywhere, any time,” said Aircraft Maintenance & Modifications Manager jeff Paulik. “I can tap any of them on the shoulder and tell them they need to be in Iraq servicing an Apache tomorrow and they do it.”

The Boeing team is a flexible, talented group of aircraft mechanics, sheet metal repairmen and technicians responsible for Apache maintenance, aircraft rollout ceremonies and VIP and media flights to foreign and domestic leaders.

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The Apache Delivery Center team prides itself on fulfilling the program’s popular credo, “Promises Made. Promises Kept.”

Alabamainternational enterprisesppg industriessanmina-sCi systems

AlaskaAir glass inc.

ArizonaAcme electric Corp.Armor holdingsArmor WorksAtk ordnancebutler nationalCom techd-Velco Manufacturingexcaliber precisionhoneywell Aerohoneywell international engineshoneywell international equipmentiMC Magneticsphoenix logisticsprescott Aerospacerobertsonservice & salessimula safety systemssystems 3 inc.treffers precisiontrio precisionWalters precision

CaliforniaAdams rite AerospaceAdb industriesAztec ComponentsbAe systems ControlsChadwick hemetsducommun Aerostructureseaton sterer Corp.esterline Mason technologies Corp.glenair inc.globe dynamics internationalh.r. textronit Aerospace ControlsJaco engineeringklune industries inc.Meggitt AirdynamicsMetric precision Machine & engineeringnorthrop grummanparker hannifin Control systemsparker hannifin Customer supportrbC transport dynamicsstandard Armamentsurvival systems internationalswift-Cor AerospaceteAC Aerospace technologiestempco engineering inc.tfC Manufacturinguniversal propulsion CompanyVenture AircraftW Machine Works Western designWestern Methods

ColoradoManes Machine & engineeringrMb products

Connecticutfennhamilton sundstrandpurdytimes Microwave

floridaharris Corp.honeywelllockheed Martinlongbow llC lblpall Aeropower Corp.smiths industriesparker hannifin

georgiaAid Corp.engineered fabrics

illinoisborg-Warner transmission systemsitW spiroidskf Aerospace sealing solution

indianaraytheon

iowaCarleton life support systems

kansasAir technicsducommun Aero

MarylandAAi Corp.fairchild Controls Corp.perkin elmer fluid servicesservice engineering Company

MassachusettsChomericsgeneral electric Aircraft enginesparker hannifin

MinnesotaAerospace systemshoneywell dsesrosemount Aerospacestremel Manufacturing Companytsi plastics

Mississippieaton-Vickers

Missourigkn Aerospacepatriot Machine inc.

nebraskageneral dynamics Armamentroyal plastic Manufacturing inc.

new hampshirebAetimken Aerospace

new Jerseyhoneywell international inc.Valcor engineering

new YorkCox & Co.goodrich Corp.lockheed MartinMoog inc.

north Carolinakidde Aerospacekearfott guidance & navigation

ohioAerocontrolexbf goodrich CompanyCanton drop forgegoodrich landing gearhoneywell international inc.smiths Aerospace

oklahomaprecision Machine Works inc.

oregonMeggitt silicone products

pennsylvaniaAllegheny ludlum Corp.eaton Aerospace tedecofraccaro industrieslord Corporationprecision defense services

rhode islandkearflex engineering CompanyMagnetic seal Corp.

texasefW inc.Merritt tool Company

utahklune industries inc.Moog inc.

Vermontfuel & utility systems goodrich Corp.

Virginiainnovative ConceptsMoog inc.

Washingtonexotic Metals forming Companysmiths Aerospacesaint-gobain performance plastics Corp.

West Virginiabe Aeropsace

Wisconsinnobles Manufacturing inc.

Canadal3 Communicationsnorthstar

francethales Communications

great britainMeggittseleX

israelCyclone Carmiel Composite

koreakorean Aerospace industries

the netherlandsstork fokkerstork spthales

Worldwide

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In order to deliver a superior helicopter, the Apache Team must work together with a focus on efficiency, productivity and the fiscal bottom line. Maintaining customer satisfaction is a com-

mitment Boeing and its worldwide network of suppliers continue to honor.

In today’s global economy, the relationships forged between Boeing and its suppliers facilitate the company’s ability to exceed customers’ expectations.

Team Apache suppliers are a diverse group scattered across the United States and around the world. In addition to providing parts, components and specialty items to ensure that new and

remanufactured Apaches are delivered on time, Boeing and these suppliers support urgent needs for spares and repairs so the U.S. Army can keep pace with wartime operational tempo and so inter-national customers can meet their nations’ defense objectives.

Many suppliers have been part of the Apache program since before production of the first AH-64D Apache Longbow and oth-ers are coming on board to provide technologies to be incorpo-rated on the Extended Block II and Block III Apache Longbows. Each Apache supplier is valued for its unique contributions to the success of the Apache program. n

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WHILE FIELDIng OF THE FIrST BLOCK III APACHE LOngBOW IS rAPIDLy APPrOACHIng – FIrST DELIVErIES ArE In 2011 – APACHE EngInEErS, DESIgnErS AnD InnOVATOrS ArE TArgETIng EnHAnCEMEnTS AnD nEW TECHnOLOgIES THAT WILL SUPPOrT THE APACHE FLEET FOr DECADES TO COME. THE STOrIES THAT FOLLOW THE IMPOrTAnCE OF BLOCK III AS WELL AS THE nEED TO LOOK BEyOnD TODAy TO EnSUrE THE APACHE’S LEADErSHIP WELL InTO THE FUTUrE.

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Continuous improvement of the Apache Longbow is essential to maintaining Apache relevance and effectiveness in the future.

That’s the view of U.S. Army Apache Project Manager Colonel Derek Paquette and key representatives from the U.S. Army and industry who participate in the Apache Modernization Working group that is continuing to define needs and develop solutions for insertion of new technologies into the Apache Block III upgrade program.

The solutions include an advanced crew station that offers improved situational awareness, enhancements that reduce crew workload and new technologies that improve air vehicle performance.

“Apache Longbow is a perfect example of an integrated sys-tem that has continued to evolve and improve over the years,” said Larry Plaster, manager of Apache Modernization Programs at The Boeing Company. “Our working group is focused on continued success that meets out customers’ needs for decades to come.”

Plaster added, “The Apache Longbow is an outstanding heli-copter. recent demonstrations of new technologies being incor-porated by the Block III upgrade program confirm that the Block III Apache will be effective as the Army continues to transition to a fully networked Future Force. Working together, the group will ensure that the Apache will continue to be enhanced to suc-cessfully address the operational needs of all Apache customers worldwide.”

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improved situational Awareness Based on current operations in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom and the projected future increases in crew work load associated with operations in the information-rich, network-centric operations (nCO) environment of the future – the need to improve the Apache’s crew station environment by presenting information in a more precise and easily actionable format is vital. Some of the key technologies with the potential to address needs include

- Advanced head-down and head-up display systems, - Advanced sensor and data fusion, and - Advanced Cognitive Decision Aiding Systems (CDAS).

Boeing has developed an Advanced rotorcraft-rapid Prototyping Mission Simulator to facilitate the ability to rapidly integrate and evaluate new displays (including full visor helmet displays), new CDAS behaviors, and other new work load relieving technologies such as Voice Command and Control.

In addition to the Advanced Crew Station work, Boeing and the Army continue to evaluate the potential for advanced, distributed aperture sensors to improve crew situational awareness including such advanced technologies as dis-tributed aperture sensor fusion and enhanced/synthetic vision systems which would allow the crew to “see” threats and hostile forces as well as friendly ground troop activity over a very wide field of view around the aircraft – even in heavily obscured visual conditions.

reduced Crew Work load A key component of enabling the Apache Long-bow crew of the future to function effectively on the nCO battlefield is reducing the crew workload by reductions in the effort required to execute critical flight maneuvers in the heat of battle. Boeing and the U.S. Army are work-ing on several technology upgrades that will dramatically reduce crew workload and improve crew survivability when implemented. Future enhancements include

- Modernized Control Laws to improve the low-speed handling characteristics of the current limited-authority Stability Augmentation System. - Helicopter Active Control Technology to allow crews to know when they are approaching an aircraft limit without having to monitor the Multi-Purpose Display indicators during high-workload operations.- Fly-By-Wire capability to provide a full authority flight control system for the Apache. Full authority flight controls are necessary to take complete advantage of work-load reducing, advanced control laws. Development work is focused on reducing the cost of fly-by-wire technologies and on development of advanced electromechanical main rotor control actuators.- Terrain Avoidance Warning System for integration into the Apache as an aid to prevent controlled-flight-into-terrain accidents. This technology has the potential to significantly improve crew safety and survivability in a high workload environment – especially for operations in obscured visual conditions.

improved Air Vehicle performance On-going operations around the globe empha-size the need for improved Apache payload, range and operational envelope capabilities – especially in the hot temperature, high altitude environment. Block III technologies offer a signif-icant improvement in the aircraft’s performance. Together, Boeing and the Army are developing several new technologies with the potential to decrease the current weight of the Apache Longbow or increase the power available to lift more weight. Enhancements include - The Composite Aft Fuselage prototype design constructed of advanced ballistic tolerant, battlefield reparable composite material is a key technology for weight reduction. The tail boom, vertical and horizontal stabilizers combine to produce a composite aft fuselage for the Apache that weighs approximately 90 pounds less than the current metal fuselage. In addition to the significant performance improvement, this technology eliminates the lowest life limiting components of the fuselage resulting in an extended fuselage life for the global Apache fleet. - An upgraded Tail Rotor Drive System including development of an improved tail rotor blade is being developed by Boeing and the U.S. Army to leverage the Block III performance capability improvements achieved by upgrade of the engines, the main transmission and the main rotorblades. n

Continuous improvement of the Apache Longbow is essential to maintaining Apache relevance and effectiveness in the future. – Colonel Derek Paquette

The U.S. Army of the future needs to be agile and able to maneuver forces into and out of warfighting

operations.It needs to be versatile and capable of

rapidly transforming from a peacekeeping force to a combat force. And for that force to be lethal and survivable it must have the latest technologies.

A way to advance this transformation quickly and on budget is to use Analysis, Modeling and Simulation (AMS).

Designing future combat systems using AMS will give the Army systems greater military worth. The concept of collabora-tive simulation environments also allows stakeholders to contribute during the Con-cept and Technology Development Phase and the Systems Development and Dem-onstration Phase, when inputs have the most impact on the end product’s capability.

Bringing the end user into a collabora-

tive simulation environment helps ensure the design meets the needs of the soldier in tomorrow’s battlespace. Mistakes can be made, doctrine changed, and new re-quirements identified before soldiers are put in harm’s way. This is the mission of the Apache Analysis, Modeling and Simu-lation Team and the reason we are devel-oping new models and simulations.

The role of AMS is to increase the Apache’s capability to meet the needs of soldiers in the future by defining the future operational environment, articulating fu-ture operational concepts and conducting capability analysis, technology assess-ments and mission effectiveness trade studies. This “operational analysis” results in the design concept definition, candidate technological solutions and the system requirements that will bring tomorrow’s Apache to life.

The tools we employ to accomplish the analysis are modeling and simulation.

Our models and simulations are becom-ing more complex and higher in resolution which means the line between the virtual world and the real world is becoming blurred.

For example, our simulations allow us to combine live and simulated assets in the virtual world and enable simulated manned platforms to control real world unmanned assets. This capability allows analysts to collect real time live data involving links between the virtual and real world in ways never before achieved. The result is faster prototyping, a reduction in risk in bringing new technologies to life and developmental cost savings.

The primary tool for accomplishing these tasks for the Apache Program is the Advanced rotorcraft – rapid Prototyping Mission Simulator (Ar-rPMS). The Ar-rPMS is a mobile simulation device based on a robust and highly re-configurable open architecture. The open architecture

toolsMODELIng AnD SImulAtIoN

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allows us to test and experiment with a variety of emerging technologies such as, virtual reality cockpit devices, head-up and cockpit displays, flight control, voice activation, enhanced sensors and visual sys-tems and advanced cognitive decision aiding systems.

The Ar-rPMS is being used to prototype and demonstrate advanced concepts, technologies and solutions in advanced crew station technologies and designs. Using a combination of Boeing-devel-oped and commercial software and off-the-shelf hardware reduced development and operations and maintenance costs of the device.

The Ar-rPMS team employed many Boeing modeling and simulation tools while developing the Ar-rPMS. These innovations led to the development and use of a Common Simulation Framework (CSF). The CSF enables the device to integrate technologies in minimal time and without complex interface software or hard-ware devices. This approach proved successful recently when voice recogni-tion software was integrated in a few hours, rather than days or weeks. The open architecture approach will prove invaluable as we rapidly reconfigure the Ar-rPMS to test and evaluate new and innovative technologies.

It is through tools, such as the Ar-rPMS, that the future capabilities of Apache are honed. And required capabilities are tested and evaluated before significant investments are made and perhaps lost in technolo-gies that yield marginal performance.

Analysis, Modeling and Simulation will ensure the Apache of the future meets the requirements of the Army of the future. n

Commentary by Dale Macpherson, manager of Rotorcraft Opera-tions Analysis, and the Apache Analysis, Modeling and Simulation Integrated Product Team

Apache modernization efforts are on track, integrating new technologies to maintain the Apache’s key role in support of current and future combat operations.

Boeing and the U.S. Army have combined resources to facilitate Apache participation in key network-centric operation (nCO) demonstrations to show the effectiveness of Block III nCO technology insertions.

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APACHE moDErNIzAtIoNfuture Combat systems experiment 1.1 At White Sands Missile range in new Mexico, an Apache Longbow test aircraft configured with the Block III architecture demonstrated the benefits of network connectivity with Future Combat Systems (FCS). The Apache “published and subscribed” to information on the FCS network. The connection consisted of Situational Awareness and Call-For-Fire data, and still and moving imagery from sensors. Boeing worked cooperatively with the U.S. Army’s Applied Technology Directorate on the effort.

AAAA 2007 demonstration At the 2007 Army Aviation Association of America annual convention, with twoadded network connectivity technologies – a Mini-Tactical Control Data Link(MTCDL) and a Tactical White Board (TWB), were demonstrated on the conven-tion floor. Successfully integrating a MTCDL tactical data link to facilitate thecapability for Level II UAS connectivity, would enable the Apache to receivestreaming video from a number of currently fielded unmanned aerial vehiclesand retransmit the received video (or video from the on-board Apache sensorsystems) to an FCS ground station. Additionally, TWB functionality wasintegrated into the manned/unmanned common avionics program softwareallowing ground commanders to make handwritten notations on video imagesand transmit those images to the Apache displays.

on the Move exercise In 2007, Apache Longbow participated in the Communications and Electronicsresearch, Development & Engineering Center’s Command, Control, Communi-cations, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, & reconnaissance “On theMove” exercise and VIP demonstration at Fort Dix, n.j., demonstrating key nCOtechnologies required to support the Future Force Warrior (FFW) program. Thisinvolved integration of a surrogate Soldier radio Waveform (SrW) radio into thetest Apache. The SrW provided direct network connectivity between Army Avia-tion (as represented by Apache) and the FFW Small Combat Unit.

2008 Joint expeditionary forces experiment Apache continues to integrate more Block III nCO functionality into the prototype Block III test aircraft for demonstration at joint Expeditionary Forces Experiment ’08 (jEFx 08). Key added capabilities include a more advanced version of FCS System of Systems Common Operating Equipment software, and the hardware and software required to receive and transmit H.264 (MPEg4) format video directly to and from properly equipped unmanned aerial systems. Following lab and flight integration demonstrations, the prototype Block III Apache is scheduled to participate in jEFx ’08 Main Experiment at nellis Air Force Base, nev., in April 2008. n

LEFT: Composite photo illustrates Apache network centric operations by receiving sensor video and targeting data from a Micro Air Vehicle.

The AH-64D Apache Longbow had an opportunity last year to demonstrate the benefits of Block III network connectivity during the Future Combat Systems Experiment 1.1 at the White Sands Missile range in new Mexico.

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The next major upgrade to the AH-64D Apache Longbow is still some time away, with first deliveries in 2011, but the technologies that it will employ are real and ready for production now.

For now, the Block II Apache Longbow, the most advanced combat helicopter to ever enter production, leads the way. This out-standing aircraft will be in service for decades to come and will serve alongside the Block III model when it joins the service.

For nearly three decades, Apache operators have seamlessly moved from one version of the Apache to the next, gaining skills on their current models while looking to the future when enhancements like the ones listed at right are available and supportable in the field.

Take a look at what the Block III Apache Longbow will offer.

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Networking architecture with instanta-neous data fusion and streaming video. Open Systems Architecture and other related enhancements make the Apache Longbow ready for the network. Apache Longbow will connect with the joint and Army systems interface. The Block III Apache will be the first U.S. Army avia-tion platform to have the organic capability to be part of the network and connect to the global Information grid.

Increased sensor range for extended reconnaissance and target acquisition. Along with new developments in the Fire Control radar (FCr), enhancements such as Maritime Targeting Mode, Advanced Forward Looking Infra red/night-time camera image fusion, and a laser pointer compatible with night Vision goggles, and Level IV unmanned aerial systems control give the Apache Longbow the ability to recognize and acquire targets at much greater ranges under more varied conditions of visibility and terrain.

Reduced lifecycle costs for continued operational affordability. To help keep the Apache reliable and effective in the field, the aircraft offers System-Level Em-bedded Diagnostics providing real-time, in-flight and on-ground, self-monitoring, self-diagnosing, self-reporting, systems-level embedded diag-nostics capabilities. These capabilities translate to a Mean Time Between Failure of no less than 17 to 22 hours for a 3.5 hour mission (depending on configuration).

Enhanced survivability for improved operational effectiveness. With improved electronic countermeasures, fully integrated Aircraft Survivability Equipment, and enhanced Instrument Meteorological Conditions/Instrument Flight rules, the Apache Longbow offers new levels of survivability and durability. The Block III Apache Longbow offers continued safe operation for at least 30 minutes with run-dry gear boxes and ballistic tolerance from 12.7 mm Armor Piercing Incendiary projectiles in critical areas.

Increased performance for greater agility and maneuverability. Improvements to the Apache drive system, include a new 3,400-horsepower, split-torque face-gear transmission and a new composite main rotor blades with a redesigned airfoil and lengthened by six inches for increased lift. These enhancements, along with integration of the -701D engine, combine to give the Block III Apache Longbow significantly improved perfor-mance, greater agility and increasedmaneuverability. n

Two-thousand-seven was another great year for Apache programs. The U.S. Army contracted for an

additional 20 new-build AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopters. And just before the close of the 2006 calendar year on Dec. 21, the contract for 126 remanufactured D-models – 96 for the U.S. Army and 30 for the United Arab Emirates – was signed. Deliveries to the U.S. Army and greece, Israel, japan and Kuwait con-veyed the clear message that Apache is achieving milestones and moving toward future successes.

“As the Apache program looks to 2008 and the challenges and opportu-nities ahead, it is evident that the suc-cesses earned are the direct result of the continued dedicated efforts of Boeing teammates, Team Apache suppli-ers, government leaders and U.S. Army and customer country aviators,” says Al Winn, Boeing vice president of Apache programs.

The first production AH-64A Apache was delivered to the U.S. Army in 1984 and the first Block I AH-64D Apache Longbow was delivered in March 1997. Today, Boeing is in the midst of a remarkable production run of the AH-64 multi-role helicopter, continuing to deliver to the U.S. Army and to the defense forces of multiple nations around the globe.

The Apache program has delivered more than 1,600 new and remanufactured helicopters and with the contracted orders and anticipated contract agreements, Apaches will be in production for decades in the future. The company is proud to build a lethal, ma-neuverable, sustainable, and survivable combat helicopter.

The first contract for wartime replacement Apaches was signed in September 2005 and the first delivery was in May 2007. The initial contract was for 13 new-build AH-64D Apache Long-bows for the U.S. Army. Over the last several years three more contracts have been signed for a total of 47 new-build helicopters that will be delivered between 2007 and 2010.

In response to the lessons learned and shared from combat experience in Afghanistan and Iraq, these aircraft are being built in the Block II configuration and include the Modernized Target

Acquisition Designation Sight hardware, integrated Aircraft Survivability Equip-ment and the Common Missile Warning System as just some of the incorporated platform enhancements.

Completing production on the U.S. Ar-my’s second five year multi-year contract for remanufactured AH-64D helicopters in mid-2006 meant the delivery of the 501st AH-64D Apache Longbow.

While Boeing teammates worked to build Apaches for international custom-ers, including greece, japan and Israel – an agreement to remanufacture an additional 96 AH-64Ds for the U.S. Army and 30 AH-64Ds for the United Arab Emirates was getting ready for signa-tures in December 2006. With the first of these Army aircraft loading on the production line in May 2007, the program will continue to remanufacture and de-liver helicopters through May 2010.

The Block III Apache Longbow is un-der contract with the first flight planned for mid-2008. Designed to incorporate technologies that ensure network-centric capabilities and joint service connectivity, the Block III program has achieved sig-

nificant milestones since the award of the risk reduction contract in june 2005.

Teammates managing the program have successfully com-pleted the System requirement review and Integrated Baseline review in the fourth quarter of 2006. Then in April 2007, the Preliminary Design review with the customer in anticipation of the Limited User Test was completed. In early 2008, the Critical Design review will be complete.

Milestones achieved mark where the Apache program has been thus far. It’s the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead that capture the attention and enthusiasm of teammates working on the program and current and future customers. With first Block III delivery planned for mid 2011, continued production of the Apache helicopter will continue to positively impact Army Aviation, international customers, the worldwide supplier base and Boeing teammates for many years in the future. n

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Apache teammates have delivered more than 1,600 Apaches to customers around the world. And more aircraft are on the way.

The Apache Longbow continues to log impressive new milestones. In THE NEWS

boeing deliVers first neW-build ApAChe longboW heliCopter for u.s. ArMYBoeing Apache program teammates delivered the first new-build AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopter for the U.S. Army in May 2007 during a small ceremony at the rotorcraft Systems site in Mesa, Ariz. All other AH-64D model helicopters flown by the U.S. Army are remanufactured Apaches that were delivered from 1997-2006 under two five-year, multiyear contracts. “This Apache is a milestone achievement,” Colonel Mark Hayes, Army Training and Doctrine Command capability manager for reconnaissance and attack, said during the event. “Apaches are in high demand by our soldiers in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world. Battlefield commanders depend on Apache to bring lethal force and responsive defense to troops on the ground.” This is the first new-build AH-64D Apache Longbow pur-chased by the U.S. Army. All other AH-64D model helicopters flown by the U.S. Army are remanufactured Apaches that were delivered from 1997-2006 under two five-year, multiyear contracts.

generAl reCogniZes pilots for dAring resCue Mission The top U.S. general in Iraq presented awards to four Apache pilots for their part in the july 2 rescue of two other pilots downed by enemy fire during a july 27 ceremony in the Victory Base Complex in Iraq. Lieutenant general David Petraeus, commander of Multi-national Forces Iraq, honored the four pilots of the 1st Cavalry Division’s 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, and eight others who helped rescue the pilots. Chief Warrant Officer Allan Davison and Chief Warrant Officer Micah johnson, both AH-64D Apache attack helicopter pilots for Company A, 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation regiment, received Distinguished Flying Crosses. Davison and johnson landed their attack helicopter in a hostile area and evacuated the two downed OH-58 Kiowa helicopter pilots of the 3rd Infantry Division’s 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade. Apaches have only two seats, so johnson, the front seat pilot, let one of the Kiowa pilots take his seat in the Apache while he and the other Kiowa pilot strapped themselves to the outside of the aircraft and sat on the wings, said johnson. Once the pilots were strapped in, Davison, the pilot in command, took off and headed to Baghdad International Airport where the pilots were dropped off. While this was taking place, their Apache wingmen were circling above providing security. Those two pilots, Chief Warrant Officer Seung Choi and Chief Warrant Officer Troy Moseley, received Air Medals for their efforts.

boeing trAining sYsteMs MArks suCCess of ApAChe longboW CreW trAiners Boeing Training Systems and Services, since production started in 2000, has developed and delivered 23 Apache Longbow Crew Trainers to the U.S. Army and Dutch Air Force and is under contract for an additional five trainers for both U.S. and non-U.S. customers. The trainers are deployed throughout the United States and in four other countries, including Iraq. In 2007, the availability rate consistently remained greater than 95 percent, ensuring readiness levels for individuals, crews and maintenance test pilots.

boeing AWArded ContrACt to test AdVAnCed heliCopter rotor sYsteMBoeing was awarded a $3 million Defense Advanced research Projects Agency contract in May 2007 to test an innovative main rotor system that promises quieter operation, reduced vibration and potentially improved performance for military helicopters such as the AH-64D Apache Longbow. Boeing will test the “Smart rotor” over the next year at nASA Ames research Center’s 40-by-80-foot wind tunnel in California to study the system’s forward flight characteristics and gather data to validate state-of-the-art aero-acoustic analysis codes. The system, which incorporates several new technologies that make it more capable and quieter than existing rotors, includes trailing edge blade flaps controlled by on-blade piezo electric actuators and control electronics that optimize flap motions.

V-22 Visits MesADuring a transcontinental flight, a Marine Corps MV-22 stopped in Mesa, Arizona, where Boeing employees who build the AH-64D Apache Longbow attack helicopter got a chance to see the innovative tiltrotor.

teAM deliVers 5,000th ‘fAt boY’ strAp pACk for ApAChe heliCopterAn employee involvement team at the Boeing rotorcraft site in Mesa, Ariz., produced the 5,000th “Fat Boy” strap pack in july 2007, delivering it to the U.S. Army. The strap packs are parts used to hold the rotor blades on the AH-64D Apache helicopters for domestic and international customers. The team began pro-duction on the “Fat Boy” version of the parts in February 2003 when they were enhanced from the thinner versions with the upgrade of Apaches from the A to the D-model.

boeing MAgAZines And Video CApture internAtionAl AWArdsBoeing Apache News and Chinook News, annual magazines that highlight success stories of the aircraft in the field and a “Back from Iraq VI” video, telling the story of soldiers flying Boeing rotorcraft, have earned international awards for creative excellence. All three captured 2007 Communicator Awards of Distinction. The Communicator Awards is the leading international awards program that recognizes creative excellence in the communication field. Awards are presented for projects that exceed industry standards in quality and excellence. The Back from Iraq VI video also received a Telly award in 2007. The two magazines and the video are used by Boeing company leaders to inform industry, government and military officials, and employees about milestones and accomplishments by AH-64 Apache and the CH-47 Chinook helicopters around the world.

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A flight in an AH-64D Apache Longbow was the highlight of a visit to the Boeing site in Mesa, Ariz., for two U.S. government Budget Office officials in August 2007.

Director of Investment in the Army Budget Office, judy guenther, and Chief Munitions and Aircraft Division – Investment Directorate, Dale Hanson, who manages funding for the Apache were at The Boeing Company to gather information and data to answer questions in Congress about the Army budget. Their visit coincided with the annual Apache Project Progress review.

“The Army has been successful getting congressional support to replace Apaches as evidenced by the contracts for wartime replacement aircraft,” said guenther, who beamed after her flight. “Our leaders are excited about Boeing Lean process and the cost savings those efforts bring to products like the Apache helicopter.”

guenther added, “The Apache is a sophisticated aircraft with its displays and so many other technologies that clearly are useful in the combat situations soldiers face today.”

Hanson, who enjoyed his flight in the Apache Longbow, said, “Current Army Apache aviators have an awesome fighting plat-form. This helicopter’s situational awareness capabilities make a positive difference and we had the very rare opportunity to see that from the front seat of the aircraft.”

“To continue to secure congressional approval for funding in sup-port of Army objectives – like replacing helicopters damaged or destroyed fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq – Army leaders gather information and data to answer to questions about the Army budget,” said Al Winn, Boeing vice president of Apache Programs. “This turned out to be a very useful and positive visit for both officials.”

u.s. goVernMent budget MAnAgers STUDy APACHE In FLIgHT

judy guenther, top, and Dale Hanson both had the opportunity to fly in the Apache Longbow during their visit to the Boeing facility in Mesa, Ariz., the home of the Apache helicopter program.

MedAl of honor reCipient pilots ApAChe longboW heliCopter The latest Medal of Honor recipient flew as the co-pilot/gunner in an Apache Longbow in june 2007. The Medal of Honor is the United States’ highest military honor awarded by Congress for risk of life in combat beyond the call of duty. “It felt so good, I didn’t want to take my hands off the controls,” said Lieutenant Colonel (ret.) Bruce C. Crandall, who also had a chance to briefly pilot the aircraft. “This is the best aircraft that has ever been built.” Lieutenant Colonel Crandall, 74, was awarded the Medal of Honor by President george W. Bush in a White House cere-mony on Feb. 26 for his heroic actions as a helicopter pilot in the november 1965 Battle of Ia Drang in Vietnam. As a flight commander serving with A Company, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), Crandall and his wingman, then Captain Ed Freeman, flew 14 missions, encounter-ing intense enemy fire as they delivered much-needed ammunition to ground troops and flew 70 wounded soldiers to safety. A veteran Army Aviator, rated in both fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft, and helicopters, he led more than 900 combat missions during two tours of duty in Vietnam. After years of flying UH-1 “Huey” helicopters, this was Crandall’s second time flying an Apache Longbow.

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neW ChroMe-free pAint priMer CoVers ApAChes in produCtion The Boeing site in Mesa, Ariz., began using a new, chrome-free, environmentally friendly paint primer on Apache helicopters in production the summer of 2007. The Mesa facility is the first Boeing site to spray a chrome-free primer on its entire aircraft. The first Apache aircraft was sprayed with the seafoam green primer April 19. The new primer is being gradually phased in, while the plant finishes using the final stores of the old, chromated primer. “The new primer no longer contains chrome and still gives the Apache the corrosion protection it needs,” said ramesh Patel, one of the Materials, Process and Standards engineers at the Mesa facility who worked on the primer project.

500th ApAChe longboW heliCopter fuselAge stripped in flAshJet sYsteM Pulsed light energy and dry ice pellets stripped the paint off of the 500th Apache Longbow fuselage june 15, 2007, marking a milestone in the use of the FLASHjET® coatings removal system. “This is an impor-tant milestone for us in the Apache remanufacturing process,” said Don Mcglothlin, director of Apache Operations at the Boeing rotorcraft center in Mesa, Ariz., where Apaches are produced, flight-tested and delivered. “We have enjoyed success with the FLASHjET system through two multi-year contracts with the U.S. Army and for several international customers.” Some of those remanufactured Apache fuselages were stripped at the Corpus Christi Army Depot, a modification and repair site in Texas. The FLASHjET system is a patented process that combines pulsed light energy and a steady stream of dry ice pellets to remove up to four square feet of paint per minute. The cost is less than manual removal and chemical stripping. Waste produced is vacuumed into a filter capture system, eliminating surface cleanup time. The Boeing site in Mesa was the first site to use the environmentally friendly FLASHjET paint stripping process in 1996 to remanufacture its Apache helicopters for the U.S. Army.

bACk froM irAQ Videos AVAilAbleTwo new Back from Iraq videos have been completed and are scheduled to be available from the Apache team in 2008. Copies of Back from Iraq V, which details the story of Apaches in the 101st Aviation Brigade, and Back from Iraq VII, which highlights the operations of 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation regiment, can be obtained by sending a message to carole.j.thompson-sutton@boeing.com with an address and contact information.

depArtMent of defense leAder briefed on ApAChe produCtion MethodsDeputy Under Secretary of Defense for Industrial Policy William greenwalt learned about Boeing rotorcraft programs, including the combat-proven AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopter, during a May 2007 visit to the boeing site in Mesa, Ariz.. greenwalt is an advisor on matters relating to the defense industrial base, work-ing to stimulate competition and innovation, and sustain cost-effective industrial and technological capabili-ties to ensure military readiness and superiority. A tour of the Apache production assembly area allowed greenwalt to see new-build, wartime replacement Apaches that will soon be delivered to the U.S. Army.

nAto nAtionAl ArMAMent direCtors Visit boeing in AriZonA Five north Atlantic Treaty Organization (nATO) national Armament Directors visited the Boeing site in Mesa, Ariz., in April 2007 for a tour and technology briefings. Kenneth j. Krieg, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, led a delegation of 45 members representing nATO member coun-tries - France, germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the United States. The group received information about new technologies being developed for Boeing rotorcraft platforms, toured the Apache production assembly area, and talked briefly to teammates who work on the assembly line. Additionally the delegates witnessed a live demonstration of Apache’s network-centric capabilities in the Operations, Analysis, Modeling and Simulation Center and the Unmanned Little Bird helicopter in flight during its testing program.

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