helicopter Boeing AH-64A Apache: The Rotary-Winged Chieftain

[RogueStarflyer 1,242]

AH-64A Apache

 

 

 

The AH-64A Apache is the first production variant of one of the world's most famous and advanced multi-role combat helicopters.   Produced by Boeing, the Apache is used by the U.S. Army and a growing number of international defense forces, including Egypt, Greece, Israel, the Netherlands, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.  Highly maneuverable and heavily armed, the combat-proven Apache helicopter is the backbone of the U.S. Army’s all-weather, ground-support capability.

 

 

Development/Combat History:

Spoiler

Development History:

 

Following the cancellation of the AH-56 Cheyenne in 1972, in favor of projects like the U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II and the Marine Corps Harrier, the United States Army sought an aircraft to fill an anti-armor attack role that would still be under Army command.  The 1948 Key West Agreement forbade the Army from owning combat fixed-wing aircraft. The Army wanted an aircraft better than the AH-1 Cobra in firepower, performance and range. It would have the maneuverability for terrain following nap-of-the-earth (NoE) flying. To this end, the U.S. Army issued a Request For Proposals (RFP) for an Advanced Attack Helicopter (AAH) on November 15th, 1972. As a sign of the importance of this project, in September 1973, the Army designated its five most important projects as the "Big Five", with the AAH included.

 

Proposals were submitted by Bell, Boeing Vertol/Grumman team, Hughes, Lockheed, and Sikorsky. In July 1973, the U.S. Department of Defense selected finalists Bell and Hughes Aircraft's Toolco Aircraft Division (later Hughes Helicopters). This began the phase 1 of the competition.  Each company built prototype helicopters and went through a flight test program. Hughes' Model 77/YAH-64A prototype first flew on 30 September 1975, while Bell's Model 409/YAH-63A prototype first flew on 1 October 1975. After evaluating the test results, the Army selected Hughes' YAH-64A over Bell's YAH-63A in 1976. Reasons for selecting the YAH-64A included its more damage tolerant four-blade main rotor and the instability of the YAH-63's tricycle landing gear arrangement.

 

In 1981, three pre-production AH-64As were handed over to the U.S. Army for Operational Test II. The Army testing was successful, but afterward it was decided to upgrade to the more powerful T700-GE-701 version of engine, rated at 1,690 shp (1,260 kW). The AH-64 was named the Apache in late 1981, keeping with the Army's traditional use of American Indian tribal names for its helicopters and it was approved for full-scale production in 1982. In 1983, the first production helicopter was rolled out at Hughes Helicopter's facility at Mesa, Arizona. Hughes Helicopters was purchased by McDonnell Douglas for $470 million in 1984.  The helicopter unit later became part of The Boeing Company with the merger of Boeing and McDonnell Douglas in August 1997.  In 1986, the incremental or flyaway cost for the AH-64A was $7M and the average unit cost was approximately $13.9M based on total costs.  AH-64A model full scale production began in 1983.

 

Combat History:

 

The Apache was involved in several conflicts, each time being a great support for ground troops and giving no chances for enemy armored units.  The AH-64A proved its capabilities in action during both Operation Restore Hope and Operation Desert Storm. Apache helicopters played a key role in the 1989 action in Panama, where much of its activity was at night, when the AH-64's advanced sensors and sighting systems were effective against Panamanian government forces.

Apache helicopters also played a major role in the liberation of Kuwait. On 20 November 1990, the 11th Aviation Brigade was alerted for deployment to Southwest Asia from Storck Barracks in Illesheim Germany. The first elements arrived in theater 24 November 1990. By 15 January 1991 the unit had moved 147 helicopters, 325 vehicles and 1,476 soldiers to the region. The Apache helicopters of the Brigade destroyed more than 245 enemy vehicles with no losses.

 

Its first serious combat test was the Operation Desert Storm. During the first 100 hours of fighting, 277 Apache destroyed 278 Iraqi tanks, plus an unspecified number of combat vehicles and infantry, losing only one machine.  AH-64s were credited with destroying more than 500 tanks plus hundreds of additional armored personnel carriers, trucks and other vehicles. They also were used to destroy vital early warning radar sites, an action that opened the U.N. coalition's battle plan. Apaches also demonstrated the ability to perform when called upon, logging thousands of combat hours at readiness rates in excess of 85 percent during the Gulf War.

 

While recovery was ongoing, additional elements of the 11th Aviation Brigade began the next chapter of involvement in the region. On 24 April 1991 the 6th Squadron, 6th Cavalry’s 18 AH-64 helicopters began a self-deployment to Southwest Asia. The Squadron provided aerial security to a 3,000 square kilometer region in Northern Iraq as part of the Combined Task Force of Operation Provide Comfort. 

 

The AH-64 also took part in operations in the Balkans, in Afghanistan, in Iraq, in Lebanon, in the Gaza Strip and others. Its reliability was put to test in the harsh mountains of Afghanistan, where the helicopters were particularly vulnerable to enemy fire, and despite the many skirmishes, where Apaches received serious damage, almost always managed to return safely to base. 
 

The AH-64A Apache helped to keep the peace in Bosnia. April of 1996 saw the beginning of the 11th Regiment’s involvement in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Elements of 6-6 Cavalry served as a part of Task Force Eagle under 1st Armored Division for 7 months. In October of 1996, Task Force 11, consisting of the Regimental Headquarters, 2-6 Cavalry, 2-1 Aviation and 7-159 Aviation (AVIM) deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina in support of Operation Joint Endeavor/Operation Joint Guard for 8 months. In June of 1998 the Regimental Headquarters, 6-6 Cav and elements of 5-158 Aviation were again deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina in support of Operations Joint Guard and Joint Forge for 5 months. The AH-64A’s advanced sensors and sighting systems proved effective in removing the cover of darkness from anti-government forces.

Army National Guard units in North and South Carolina, Florida, Texas, Arizona, Utah and Idaho also fly Apache helicopters. The Army has fielded combat-ready AH-64A units in the United States, West Germany and in Korea, where they play a major role in achieving the US Army's security missions.

 

Systems Overview:

 

The AH-64 Apache has a four-blade main rotor and a four-blade tail rotor. The crew sits in tandem, with the pilot sitting behind and above the co-pilot/gunner. Both crew members are capable of flying the aircraft and performing methods of weapon engagements independently. The AH-64 is powered by two General Electric T700 turboshaft engines with high-mounted exhausts on either side of the fuselage. Various models of engines have been used on the Apache; those in British service use engines from Rolls-Royce. In 2004, General Electric Aviation began producing more powerful T700-GE-701D engines, rated at 2,000 shp (1,500 kW) for AH-64Ds.

 

The crew compartment has shielding between the cockpits, such that at least one crew member can survive hits. The compartment and the rotor blades are designed to sustain a hit from 23 mm (0.91 in) rounds. The airframe includes some 2,500 lb (1,100 kg) of protection and has a self-sealing fuel system to protect against ballistic projectiles. The aircraft was designed to meet the crashworthiness requirements of MIL-STD-1290, which specifies minimum requirement for crash impact energy attenuation to minimize crew injuries and fatalities. This was achieved through incorporation of increased structural strength, crashworthy landing gear, seats and fuel system.

 

On a standard day where temperatures are 59 °F (15 °C), the AH-64 has a vertical rate of climb of 1,775 feet per minute (541 m/min), and a service ceiling of 21,000 feet (6,400 m). However, on a hot day where temperatures are 70 °F (21 °C), its vertical rate of climb is reduced to 1,595 fpm (486 m/min), and service ceiling is reduced to 19,400 feet (5,900 m) due to less dense air.

 

1. Stabilator 
2. Vertical stabilizer 
3. Air data sensor 
4. TADS & PNVS turrets 
5. Canopy jettison handle 
6. Forward avionics bay 
7. Mooring lug 
8. Fire extinguisher 
9. Intercom 
10.Main transmission oil level sight gage 
11. Aft equipment bay ("catwalk") 
12. Hydraulic ground service panel 
13. Hydraulic oil level sight gage 
14. Infrared countermeasure device 
15. Chaff module
16. Utility light / ground power receptacle 
17. Aft storage bay 
18. Survival equipment storage bay 
19. Main landing gear 
20. Pilot door 
21. Co-pilot door 
22. Searchlight 
23. Ammunition bay 
24. Tail landing gear 
25. Aft avionics bay 
26. APU oil level sight gage
 

 

Air Frame/Durability:

 

 

 

The AH-64 has been created to dominate every battlefield, but also to improve its combat survivability.  Features of the Apache Air frame include a large flat-plate canopy with boran armour, multi-spar stainless steel and glassfibre rotor blades designed to withstand 23 mm hits, comprehensive avionics and weapon fits, and numerous features to protect the crew, including crash-resistant seats and an airframe designed to withstand ballistic impact from guns up to 12.7 mm caliber.

 

 The airframe includes some 1,100 kg of protection and has a self-sealing fuel system to protect against ballistic projectiles. The aircraft was designed to meet the crashworthiness requirements of MIL-STD-1290, which specifies minimum requirement for crash impact energy attenuation to minimize crew injuries and fatalities. This was achieved through incorporation of increased structural strength, crashworthy landing gear, seats and fuel system.

The AH-64A Apache has a four-blade main rotor and a four-blade tail rotor.  The rotor blades are made of composite, and this means that it can continue the flight even with the rotor badly damaged. The 17.75 cm rotor shaft can resist direct 12,7 mm hit and still work.Main rotor blade after cannon hit, heavy damaged titanium facing and inner structure, with this damage can run next 5 hrs:

 

 

Both engines are spaced apart and protected by armor plate, which reduces the chance of losing both of them when one gets a hit. In the event of an emergency landing, the crew can be confident of survival when the machine hits the earth with speed no greater than 46 km/h (28 miles/h). In addition, any leakage of fuel or engine oil for some time does not diminish the critical performance of the helicopter, which in a difficult situation, can decide about the life of the crew.

 

 

Cockpit/Crew:

 

 

Pilot Seat:

Spoiler

 

 

 

 

1st PILOT SEAT

1. Standby compass 
2. Master Caution/ Warning panel 
3. Canopy door release 
4. Instrument panel 
5. ASE control panels 
6. Cyclic stick 
7. Caution/ Warning panel 
8. Directional control/ Brake pedals 
9. Pedal adjust lever 
10. Right console 
11. Collective stick 
12. Left console 
13. Auxiliary air vent 
14. Power levers 
15. Center console 
16. Fire control panel 
17. Tail wheel lock panel 
18. Canopy jettison handle 
19. Parking brake handle 
20. Engine fire

 

2nd Pilot/Gunner Seat:

Spoiler

 

 

 

 

 

2nd PILOT/SHOOTER SEAT

1. Optical relay tube and handgrips 
2. Master Caution/ Warning panel 
3. Canopy door release 
4. Right instrument panel 
5. Conditioned air outlet 
6. Caution/Warning panel 
7. Directional control/ Brake pedals 
8. Cyclic stick 
9. Right console 
10. Pedal adjust lever 
11. Map storage compartment 
12. Circuit breaker panel 
13. Collective stick 
14. Power levers 
15. Left console 
16. Data entry keyboard 
17. Fire control panel 
18. Canopy jettison handle 
19. Left instrument panel 
20. Engine fire pull handles 
21. Boresight reticle unit 
22. Stabilator control panel 
23. Mirror

 

The crew compartment has shielding between the cockpits, such that at least one crew member can survive hits. The cabin crew is placed in a real kevlar want, intended to ensure the greatest possible chance of survival in case of receiving severe damage:

 

 

Ballistic prevention is about 1130 kg of airframe (from Teledyne Ryan Aeronautical).

Light boron armour - (Ceradyne), sides, cabin decking, front/back cabin - can resist 23mm HEI shot.
Kevlar pilot seats - (Simula)
Anti presswave acrylat shield - (Sierracin)
Glasses - (PPG Industries)
 

Crew:

Spoiler

The crew sits in tandem, with the pilot sitting behind and above the copilot/gunner. Both crew members are capable of flying the aircraft and performing methods of weapon engagements independently.

 

(IHADSS) - INTEGRATED HELMET AND DISPLAY SIGHT SYSTEM:

 

 

 

The AH-64 Apache is fitted with helmet mounted display, the Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS); among other abilities the pilot or gunner can slave the helicopter's 30 mm automatic M230 Chain Gun to his helmet, making the gun track head movements to point at where he looks.  IHADSS provides a monocular helmet-mounted designator/sight.

 

 

Split-torque face gear:
 

Split-torque face gears are intersecting-shaft gears found in helicopter transmissions, which were fielded in Apache helicopters in 2011. The face gear design includes two face gears located face-to-face over one another, resembling a compact and cylindrical gearbox. Two input pinions and two idler gears are also used. Part sizes are decreased due to the torque being divided in half at the input pinion meshes, resulting in reduced size and weight in comparison to previous gear systems used in Apache helicopters.

 

The experimental evaluation of face gears began at NASA Glenn Research Center, working in conjunction with the U.S. Army Research Laboratory in Cleveland, Ohio in 1991. Split-torque face gear was used inside the drive system of Apache Block III helicopters, also called AH-64E, to increase transmission power in the Apache helicopter without increasing the transmission's size or weight. Testing in the 1990s sought to demonstrate that face gears could be used at high rotational speeds and carry high loads, similar to what would be expected if used in a helicopter main rotor drive system.

 

Avionics, Targeting, and Sensors:

 

The AH-64 was designed to perform in front-line environments, and to operate at night or day and during adverse weather conditions. Various sensors and onboard avionics allows the Apache to perform in these conditions; such systems include the Target Acquisition and Designation System, Pilot Night Vision System (TADS/PNVS), passive infrared countermeasures, GPS, and the IHADSS. 

 

 The Apache's primary sensor is the Martin Marietta TADS/PNVS (Target Acquisition and Designation Sight/Pilot's Night Vision System) that combines a low-light level TV, laser designator and FLIR (forward-looking infra-red).
 

Prime Vendor Support (PVS) for the entire fleet of AH-64s is a pilot program for the Army, and may become a pilot program for the Department of Defense. PVS will place virtually all of Apache's wholesale logistic responsibility under a single contract. The Apache flying hour program will provide upfront funding for spares, repairables, contractor technical experts, and reliability improvements. Starting at the flight line there will be contractor expert technicians with advanced troubleshooting capability assigned to each Apache Battalion. At the highest level, PVS represents a single contractor focal point for spares and repairs. The intent is to break the current budget and requirements cycle that has Apache at 67% supply availability with several thousand lines at zero balance.

Modernization Through Spares (MTS) is a spares/component improvement strategy applied throughout the acquisition life cycle and is based on technology insertion to enhance systems and extend useful life while reducing costs. The MTS initiative seeks to leverage current procurement funds and modernize individual system spares thereby incrementally improving these systems. MTS is accomplished via the "spares" acquisition process. MTS, a subset of acquisition reform, seeks to improve an end item's spare components. The emphasis is on form, fit and function, allowing a supplier greater design and manufacturing flexibility to exploit technology used in the commercial marketplace.

 

Apache MTS focuses on the insertion of the latest technology into the design and manufacture of select spares. This is to be accomplished without government research and development (R&D) funds, but rather, uses industry investment. Industry, in turn, recoups this investment through the sale of improved hardware via long term contracts.

 

Modernization efforts continue to improve the performance envelope of the AH-64A while reducing the cost of ownership. Major modernization efforts within the AH-64A fleet are funded and on schedule. GG Rotor modifications were finished in April 1998,, and future improvements such as a Second Generation FLIR, a High Frequency Non-Line of Sight NOE radio, and an internal fully crashworthy auxiliary fuel tank are all on the verge of becoming a reality for the Apache.

 

The Aviation Mission Planning System (AMPS) and the Data Transfer Cartridge (DTC) are tools for the Embedded Global Positioning Inertial Navigation Unit (EGI) equipped AH-64A aircraft that allow aircrews to plan missions and download the information to a DTC installed in the Data Transfer Receptacle (DTR). This saves the pilots a lot of "fat fingering" and eliminates the worry of everyone being on the same "sheet of music". Other features of the DTC include; saving waypoints and targets and troubleshooting. The EGI program is a Tri-service program with the Army, Air Force and Navy.
 

In 2014, it was announced that new targeting and surveillance sensors were under development to provide high-resolution color imagery to crews, replacing older low definition black-and-white imaging systems. Lockheed received the first contract in January 2016, upgrading the Arrowhead turret to provide higher-resolution color imaging with longer ranges and a wider field of view. In 2014, the U.S. Army was adapting its Apaches for increased maritime performance as part of the Pentagon's rebalance to the Pacific. Additional avionics and sensor improvements includes an extended-range radar capable of detecting small ships in littoral environments, software adaptions to handle maritime targets, and adding Link 16 data-links for better communications with friendly assets.

 

 

Engines:

 

 

Two General Electric T700-GE-701C turboshafts, 1857 hp each

Length:46 in (1,17 m)

Height: 58,4 cm

Width: 63,5 cm

Nominal Diameter:15.6 in (39.6 cm)

Weight: 456 lbs (207 kg)

 

 

AUDIO FILE *.wav

 

 

Engine Specifications (Sea Level/Standard Day)
Contingency (2.5 min. OEI) Maximum (10 min.) Intermediate (30 min.) Maximum Continuous	SHP (kW) 1,940 (1,447) 1,890 (1,409) 1,800 (1,342) 1,662 (1,239)	SFC -- 0.462 (78.1) 0.460 (77.7) 0.459 (77.6)
SHP - Shaft Horsepower SFC - Specific Fuel Consumption in lb/SHP-hr (µg/J)     OEI - One Engine Inoperative

 

 

Armament and configurations:

The AH-64 is adaptable to numerous different roles within its context as Close Combat Attack (CCA). In addition to the 30 mm M230E1 Chain Gun, the Apache carries a range of external stores and weapons on its stub-wing pylons, typically a mixture of AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles, and Hydra 70 general-purpose unguided 70 mm (2.756 in) rockets.  An 18-aircraft Apache battalion can carry 288 Hellfire missiles, each capable of destroying a tank. Since 2005, the Hellfire missile is sometimes outfitted with a thermobaric warhead; designated AGM-114N, it is intended for use against ground forces and urban warfare operations. The use of thermobaric "enhanced blast" weapons, such as the AGM-114N, has been a point of controversy. In October 2015, the U.S. Army ordered its first batch of Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guided 70 mm rockets for the Apache.

 

Starting in the 1980s, the Stinger and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles and the AGM-122 Sidearm anti-radiation missile were evaluated for use upon the AH-64. The Stinger was initially selected; the U.S. Army was also considering the Starstreak air-to-air missile.  External fuel tanks can also be carried on the stub wings to increase range and mission time. The stub-wing pylons have mounting points for maintenance access; these mountings can be used to secure externally personnel for emergency transportation. Stinger missiles are often used on non-U.S. Apaches, as foreign forces do not have as many air superiority aircraft to control the skies.  However, neither the Stinger nor the Starstreak missiles were officially integrated onto the AH-64A.

 

 

Cannon:

Spoiler

 

The main armament of the AH-64 Apache includes a 30mm automatic Boeing M230 chain gun is located under the fuselage.  The chain gun, or area weapon, was designed specifically for the Apache. When Hughes Aircraft won the contract to build the AH-64A in December 1976, they were also awarded the contract to produce a gun of a totally new design. Instead of using a multibarrel Gatlingstyle gun as had been the practice, they used the Lanier Linkless Feed System to load the ammunition into a unique rotating-bolt mechanism. This mechanism is chain driven, as opposed to the old method of using the gas created by firing a round to eject the cartridge and recock the gun. That system was prone to jamming if the round did not fire to create the gas. With the chain-drive system, the round gets ejected after the firing cycle whether it fires or not. It provides a rate of fire of 625 rounds a minute. The helicopter has capacity for up to 1,200 rounds of ammunition.

 

30mm Cannon Ammunition:

 

The 30mm x 173 GAU-8/A ammunition was among the most effective ammunition used in Operation Desert Storm with proven performance against all targets, including tanks, armored and light vehicles. The 30mm lightweight family of ammunition was developed to optimize the air-to-ground mission of the U.S. Army AH-64 Apache helicopter. This ammunition family is also compatible with all 30mm x 113 gun systems.

 

The gun is a 30mm weapon instead of a 20mm gun like the one on the AH-1 Cobra. The increase in size gives the Apache more firing range and killing power against armored targets. Another difference between the Cobra and the Apache is the location of the ammo magazine. In the Cobra, the gun and the ammo were located on the chin of the aircraft under the gunner's station. As the fuel burned and rounds were expended, the weight distribution of the aircraft constantly changed, negatively affecting the flight of the helicopter. To avoid this problem, the ammunition aboard the Apache is stored near the center of gravity in the belly of the aircraft directly under the rotor mast.

 

Although the 30mm gun is capable of destroying armored targets, the main purpose of the area weapon is to provide suppressive ground fire while the crew carries out their antitank mission. The gun is usually operated by the CPG, but it can be operated by either crew member using the look-and-shoot helmet-mounted sight system.

 

30mm x 113

• M788 (TP) Target Practice
• M789 (HEDP) High Explosive Dual Purpose
• M799 (HEI) High Explosive Incendiary
• M848 DUMMY

 

30mm x 173

• PGU-13/B HEI High Explosive Incendiary
• PGU-14/B API Armor Piercing Incendiary [DU]
• PGU-15/B TP Target Practice

 

 

 

ASMs:

Spoiler

 

The Hellfire missile carries the main punch of the Apache and is a significant improvement over the TOW missile which was originally specified. The TOW is an excellent antitank weapon but has the major drawback of requiring line-of-sight contact with the target for the entire flight. The TOW is a wire-guided system that is flown to the target by the gunner in the helicopter. This leaves the aircraft visible and vulnerable for as long as it takes the missile to reach its target.

 

The development of the Hellfire missile system began in 1974 with the US Army’s requirement for air-to-ground missile launched from helicopters against armoured fighting vehicles. Production of the base model AGM-114A commenced in 1982.  Hellfire is propelled by a single stage solid propellant Thiokol TX-657 solid-fuel rocket motor. The motor can generate 10Gs of initial thrust. The missile has a maximum velocity of 950mph.

 

The Hellfire, as proposed, was to be a fire-and-forget weapon (HELicopter FIRE-and-forget), but initial problems with the TV-based guidance system forced designers to consider a laser-tracking system. This system does not provide true fire-and-forget operation but requires that the target be illuminated by a laser for the last portion of its flight.

 

The important difference between the Hellfire and the TOW is that the laser used to guide the Hellfire does not have to be on the helicopter. Since the Apache can aim at and deliver Hellfire missiles to a target which is illuminated by ground-based or scout helicopter-based lasers, it can hit a target the gunner never sees.

 

MISSILE TYPE: Point target / anti-armour weapon
MANUFACTURER: Lockheed Martin
LENGTH: 1.62m
DIAMETER: 17.7cm
WINGSPAN: 0.7m
WEIGHT: 44.45-48.54kg
SPEED; Subsonic
WARHEAD: Shaped charge and blast fragmentation
PROPULSION: Solid propellant rocket
LAUNCH PLATFORMS: Rotary and fixed-wing platforms, unmanned combat air vehicles, tripods, ships and ground vehicles

ESTIMATED ARMOR PENETRATION: 700 - 850 mm RHA

 

 

 

Unguided Rockets:

Spoiler

 

Folded Fin Aerial Rockets (FFARs) are included in the Apache's arms list as a complement to the short-range gun and the long-range Hellfires. Although these rockets may appear small, they are actually five and a half feet long and carry quite a punch. These unguided rockets were deployed in Korea in an air-to-air role on board F-86 fighters and were among the first arms to be used aboard helicopters in Vietnam. There they proved to be cheap and effective and made the transition from use aboard the UH-1 Huey to the AH-1 Cobra, the first true attack helicopter. Now they've made another transition to the new generation of attack helicopters, the modernized AH-1S and the AH-64A Apache.

 

The role of the 2.75 FFAR aboard the Apache is similar to that of the 30mm area weapon. It is used to suppress ground fire in an area about to be entered, and, since it has a longer range, it can be used to keep the enemy's head down until the 30mm gun can be employed. The rocket can also be used to attack and destroy soft ground targets which are not vulnerable to Hellfire attack, such as depots and anti-aircraft (AA) gun sites. In emergency situations, it can even be used in an air-to-air role against Hind helicopters.

 

The FFARs have been constantly improved over the years (a trend that is continuing). New versions are said to contain a submunition warhead. These warheads will disperse a number of M73 grenades, or bomblets, which can defeat prone personnel and light armor over a wide area.

 

 

 

In WarThunder:

 

The AH-64D, a later production variant of the Apache, has already made an appearance in the skies of WarThunder, during the 2017 April Fools Event; link to devblog here, check out @kev2go's suggestion here.  Designated the GM-64, the Apache proved to be extremely lethal against enemy armor at long ranges, due to the accuracy of the Hellfire missile:

Spoiler

 

 

 

As for its introduction into the game, I believe that the AH-64A would make a fine addition to the later branches of the U.S. and Japanese helicopter trees, with a BR of at least 10.0.  Let me know in the comments down below if you concur with this.

 

 

Overall Specifications:

 

The Helicopter:

 

Crew: 2 - pilot and co-pilot/gunner

Maiden Flight: 30 September 1975

Entry into Service: 1984

Manufacturer: Hughes Helicopters, McDonnell Douglas, and Boeing Integrated Defense Systems

Operators: United States Army, Israel Air Force, Royal Netherlands Air Force, and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force

Main Rotor Blade Diameter: 14.63 m

Height: 4.66 m

Length: 17.73 m

Wing Span: 5.23 m

Empty Weight: 5,165 kg

Maximum Weight: 6,838 kg

Maximum Take-off Weight: 10,433 kg

Engine Type: 2 x General Electric T700-GE-701C turboshafts

Engine Power Capacity: 1,265 kW each

 

 

Performance:

 

Maximum Cruising Speed: 265 km/hr

Maximum Speed: 279 km/hr

Maximum Rate of Climb: 889 m/min

Maximum Vertical Rate of Climb: 663 m/min

Hover In-Ground Effect (MRP): Sea level Standard day: 4,845 m

Hover Out-of-Ground Effect (MRP): Sea level Standard day: 3866 m

Range: 400 km on internal fuel, 1,9000 km on internal and external fuel

Endurance: 3 hrs 9 min on internal fuel

G Limit Values: +3.5 g to -0.5 g

Combat Radius: 480 km

Ferry Range: 1,900 km

Service Ceiling: 6,400 m

 

 

Weaponry:

 

Cannon: 1 x 30 mm M230 chain gun, 1,200 rounds, roughly 625 shots per minute

ASMs: 4x, 8x, or 16 x AGM-114 Hellfire

Unguided Rockets: 38x or 76x 2.75 in Mighty Mouse FFARs

Weaponry presets: 

Spoiler

 

 

 

Sources:

 

Primary: TM 1-1520-238-10: Operator's Manual for Helicopter, Attack, AH-64A Apache

http://www.military-today.com/helicopters/boeing_ah_64a_apache.htm

http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/world-air-force-military-equipment-aircraft-/north-america/united-states-air-force/united-states-american-us-air-force-usaf-helicopter-technical-data-sheet-specifications-intelligence-description-information-identification-pictures-photos-images-video-/871-ah-64-apache-attack-helicopter-technical-data-sheet-specifications-intelligence-description-information-identification-pictures-photos-images-video-sikorsky-united-states-american-us-usaf-air-force-aviation-aerospace-defence-industry-military-technology.html

https://www.mhistory.net/ah-64-apache-attack-helicopter-interesting-facts/

http://voodoo-world.cz/ah64/info.html

https://www.army-technology.com/projects/apache/

https://www.boeing.com/defense/ah-64-apache/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_AH-64_Apache#Avionics_and_targeting

https://www.flightsimbooks.com/gunship/05_2_AH-64A_Apache_Armament.php

https://www.army-technology.com/projects/hellfire-ii-missile/

https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/equip/m230.htm

 

 

 

Thank you all for your time, and I hope you'll consider this suggestion!

 

Edited April 24, 2019 by RogueStarflyer

[Radom 4,245]

Open for discussion

[Genewen 690]

I want to see it for Japan and the US, but 11.0 is still too low for this thing, I feel. Well-armored, very modern weaponry and guidance systems, very good flight performance. I don't want this in the same matches as old Cobras and Hinds.

[XDrake991 278]

19 hours ago, Genewen said:

I want to see it for Japan and the US, but 11.0 is still too low for this thing, I feel. Well-armored, very modern weaponry and guidance systems, very good flight performance. I don't want this in the same matches as old Cobras and Hinds.

The brits could also get their WAH-64 at some point. I agree on your balancing concern.

[kev2go 5,112]

personally id rather have the Ah64D, merely because we already have the AH1Z which is a more modern than the Ah64A. That being said I still support. But id like to point out a few things to the OP.

 

 

Pilot SEAT  in the TAb spoiler of what you posted is actually a  newer cockpit, looking like the Ah64D. AH64A lacks a glass cockpit given its an older model that first appeared in the  mid1980s.

 

This is how AH64A pilot cockpit looks likes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 You did link a Operators Manual to the AH64A via   your google drive.  It like to point out the Ah64A manual was already publicly available in avialogs.

 

 

http://www.avialogs.com/viewer/avialogs-documentviewer.php?id=2685

 

 

 

 

 

On 19/09/2018 at 21:44, RogueStarflyer said:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In WarThunder:

 

The AH-64A has already made an appearance in the skies of WarThunder, during the 2017 April Fools Event; link to devblog here.  Designated the GM-64, the Apache proved to be extremely lethal against enemy armor at long ranges, due to the accuracy of the Hellfire missile:

 

 

actually the GM64 was not the Ah64A, but the Ah64D longbow in the april fools event You can tell because it has the Fire control Radar mounted atop of its rotors ( That bubbly shaped obeject) . Something the Ah64A wouldn't have had. And for those who remembered If you zoomed in into the cockpit form the exterior could see Multi-function Displays. within its cockpits. another indication Gm64 was modeled from the  Ah64D. 

 

 

 

Edited September 22, 2018 by kev2go

[RogueStarflyer 1,242]

Quote

I want to see it for Japan and the US, but 11.0 is still too low for this thing, I feel. Well-armored, very modern weaponry and guidance systems, very good flight performance. I don't want this in the same matches as old Cobras and Hinds.

Quote

I agree on your balancing concern.

 

I've increased BR range on the poll to 12.0.  Thanks for the feedback.

 

On 21/09/2018 at 14:40, kev2go said:

personally id rather have the Ah64D, merely because we already have the AH1Z which is a more modern than the Ah64A. That being said I still support.

 

I would as well.  Unfortunately, I think the longbow hellfire missiles are too advanced for the game right now.  Thus, the A variant seems the better choice for now, until fire and forget missiles become a thing.

 

On 21/09/2018 at 14:40, kev2go said:

Pilot SEAT  in the TAb spoiler of what you posted is actually a  newer cockpit, looking like the Ah64D. AH64A lacks a glass cockpit given its an older model that first appeared in the  mid1980s.

 

This is how AH64A pilot cockpit looks likes

 

 

 

 

Fixed, thanks.

 

On 21/09/2018 at 14:40, kev2go said:

You did link a Operators Manual to the AH64A via   your google drive.  It like to point out the Ah64A manual was already publicly available in avialogs.

 

 

http://www.avialogs.com/viewer/avialogs-documentviewer.php?id=2685

 

Will fix tomorrow, thanks.

 

On 21/09/2018 at 14:40, kev2go said:

actually the GM64 was not the Ah64A, but the Ah64D longbow in the april fools event You can tell because it has the Fire control Radar mounted atop of its rotors ( That bubbly shaped obeject) . Something the Ah64A wouldn't have had. And for those who remembered If you zoomed in into the cockpit form the exterior could see Multi-function Displays. within its cockpits. another indication Gm64 was modeled from the  Ah64D. 

 

Fixed, thanks.

Edited October 1, 2018 by RogueStarflyer

[Milocat 4,857]

The Apache would work as a top-tier attack helicopter against modern MBTs.  

[CK_16 791]

This really should be about the AH-1A of the USA not this made up thing . Most of your information is good just remove the rotary Chieftain ect. portions

 

There is also differences between the AH-1A and D that should be noted. 

 

An easy way to ID an A from a D is the jowls below the cockpit are skinny. The D or any other models post D have the fat ones for some of the upgrades ect. The first image you have is a D model not an A

Edited October 21, 2018 by CK_16

[RogueStarflyer 1,242]

17 hours ago, CK_16 said:

This really should be about the AH-1A of the USA not this made up thing .

 

Agreed 100%.

 

17 hours ago, CK_16 said:

Most of your information is good just remove the rotary Chieftain ect. portions

 

https://warthunder.com/en/news/4614-gm-64-rotary-wing-chieftain-en

 

17 hours ago, CK_16 said:

There is also differences between the AH-1A and D that should be noted. 

 

An easy way to ID an A from a D is the jowls below the cockpit are skinny. The D or any other models post D have the fat ones for some of the upgrades ect. The first image you have is a D model not an A

 

Are you sure about the picture being incorrect?

Spoiler

I was always told that the way to distinguish the A variant and the D variant was the presence of the dome installed over the main rotor which houses the AN/APG-78 Longbow millimeter-wave Fire Control Radar (FCR) target acquisition system and the Radar Frequency Interferometer (RFI).  What you said about the jowls being fatter on the D variant is correct; however, I don't think that the jowls in the picture are very fat:

 

And a D variant for comparison:

 

 

[joshwagstaff13 410]

3 hours ago, RogueStarflyer said:

Are you sure about the picture being incorrect?

The lower one is a Westland WAH-64D Apache, used by the Royal Army, and it has the Longbow radar system fitted. The upper one, however, is US Army S/N 99-5097, which is also a AH-64D. However, the Longbow radar has been removed for some reason.

 

This, however, is an AH-64A. Specifically, AH-64A S/N 90-0453 (C/N PV780).

Spoiler

 

[RogueStarflyer 1,242]

4 hours ago, joshwagstaff13 said:

The lower one is a Westland WAH-64D Apache, used by the Royal Army, and it has the Longbow radar system fitted. The upper one, however, is US Army S/N 99-5097, which is also a AH-64D. However, the Longbow radar has been removed for some reason.

 

This, however, is an AH-64A. Specifically, AH-64A S/N 90-0453 (C/N PV780).

  Reveal hidden contents

 

 

Thanks for the feedback.  Picture changed.

[CK_16 791]

From a friend who was an Apache for over 10 years. The Longbow radar is a big ole thing to fly around with and for the most part not needed in current combat conditions. I.E. No tanks to kill only most light armed infantry.

 

He hated flying with the radar as it made him slower and less agile.

Edited October 23, 2018 by CK_16

[Mad_Martinez 137]

imo UK also should get Apache. British army have them in real life.

[_Daddo_ 0]

Hi, All

 

We should consider higher tier helicopters (and some current models) only if due consideration is given

to stand-off options for ground forces.  Alternatively, helicopter weaponry (read guided) should be adjusted

to be less effective at the relatively long ranges as it stands now.

 

Guided surface to air weaponry seems to be the natural evolution at this stage of game development, going

into the modern age and I believe, required to re-balance the current state of the game.

[RB_Hawkz 96]

I do not think this is a good idea, at least until Helicopters are re-worked. They should not be cheaper than a WW2 fighter and they need to stop people rushing Caps with light tanks then killing themselves to spawn a Helo then dominate the map outside AAA range.

[RogueStarflyer 1,242]

On 27/12/2018 at 04:59, _Daddo_ said:

Hi, All

 

We should consider higher tier helicopters (and some current models) only if due consideration is given

to stand-off options for ground forces.  Alternatively, helicopter weaponry (read guided) should be adjusted

to be less effective at the relatively long ranges as it stands now.

 

Guided surface to air weaponry seems to be the natural evolution at this stage of game development, going

into the modern age and I believe, required to re-balance the current state of the game.

 

On 27/12/2018 at 08:42, RB_Hawkz said:

I do not think this is a good idea, at least until Helicopters are re-worked. They should not be cheaper than a WW2 fighter and they need to stop people rushing Caps with light tanks then killing themselves to spawn a Helo then dominate the map outside AAA range.

 

I completely agree with you guys that the helicopter gameplay needs to be reworked, in both mixed battles and heli-only battles.  But I don't think the solution is to "nerf heli performance."  The thing is, helicopters in the game are working realistically.  They were designed to be able to destroy enemy vehicles from long range.  How else would they be effective?

 

What needs to be introduced is an effective counter to long-range air to ground missiles.  I suggested one a little while back, Active Protection Systems.

Recently, I also suggested a new kind of aerial spotting system that would make it easier for enemy tanks to know where helicopters are on the battlefield:

 

I highly recommend that you check both these things out, and give feedback.  The other thing that will probably happen are that SAM vehicles will be introduced for all nations as the new breed of top tier SPAA.  That should do a great deal in terms of balancing current heli gameplay.

 

However, this isn't the right thread to talk about those issues.  Check out the threads I posted.  The question for this thread is, would you like to see the AH-64A Apache in the game?

[CK_16 791]

On 27/12/2018 at 07:42, RB_Hawkz said:

I do not think this is a good idea, at least until Helicopters are re-worked. They should not be cheaper than a WW2 fighter and they need to stop people rushing Caps with light tanks then killing themselves to spawn a Helo then dominate the map outside AAA range.

 

You are right, but that is because WWII fighters should not be allowed to fight against Helicopters period in this game...Not unless is Arcade, seriously RB should be closer to Sim then Arcade. leave the wacky hijinks to Arcade or the other games...

Edited January 1, 2019 by CK_16

[Wilhuff_Tarkin_ 467]

+1

[Jamaroo 246]

For this I will say Yes^100  As it would be the defining point if the Helicopter branch. Russians can get the Mi-28 Havoc and we can call things fair  

 

This would be a truly epic addition. I have been waiting for it ever since I started choppers, it will have to be added at some point! 

[PaganMin_ 483]

Of course a need.Said it way before. And BR if 10 is fine since the Mi-35 isn't higher.

 

You can give the AH-64 Longbow a higher BR when it's introduced alongside the Mil Mi-28.

On 03/02/2019 at 07:14, Jaylem said:

For this I will say Yes^100  As it would be the defining point if the Helicopter branch. Russians can get the Mi-28 Havoc and we can call things fair  

 

This would be a truly epic addition. I have been waiting for it ever since I started choppers, it will have to be added at some point! 

If they get Mi-28 there should be also the Longbow for the US.

[PaganMin_ 483]

On 29/12/2018 at 05:57, RogueStarflyer said:

 

 

I completely agree with you guys that the helicopter gameplay needs to be reworked, in both mixed battles and heli-only battles.  But I don't think the solution is to "nerf heli performance."  The thing is, helicopters in the game are working realistically.  They were designed to be able to destroy enemy vehicles from long range.  How else would they be effective?

The problem is to bring helicopters into the game in general. It was pretty obvious that they destroy the already weak balance.

 

And matching 60s helis vs 2000s helis in the event is also not very frustrating if you just started.

 

Now we have them. Another half working mechanic.

[fatih1000 10]

On 28/12/2018 at 23:57, RogueStarflyer said:

I completely agree with you guys that the helicopter gameplay needs to be reworked, in both mixed battles and heli-only battles.  But I don't think the solution is to "nerf heli performance."  The thing is, helicopters in the game are working realistically.  They were designed to be able to destroy enemy vehicles from long range.  How else would they be effective?

 

The performance of their ATGM's, however, is broken, the tows and bgm71's should have a range of 3.75-4km(depending on model), and the Russian late ATGM's having a range of 5km, but they all have a range of 7-8km which makes it impossible to retaliate with the land-based counterparts, which have correct ranges.

[RanchSauce39 397]

The armament in the OP is  incorrect.

 

 

according to the AH64A  US army operators manual AIm9's nor Stingers  not listed as a load-out option. The AH64A never had this capability ( at least not in US army service) especially considering the Ah64D, its successor still didn't have this capability within US army operation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[RogueStarflyer 1,242]

On 02/04/2019 at 21:09, RanchSauce39 said:

The armament in the OP is  incorrect.

 

according to the AH64A  US army operators manual AIm9's nor Stingers  not listed as a load-out option. The AH64A never had this capability ( at least not in US army service) especially considering the Ah64D, its successor still didn't have this capability within US army operation.

Spoiler

 

 

Fixed, thanks.

 

Although for reasons discussed in the AH-64D thread, I find it extremely hard to believe that the Longbow didn't mount A2A missiles.

[RanchSauce39 397]

4 hours ago, RogueStarflyer said:

 

Fixed, thanks.

 

Although for reasons discussed in the AH-64D thread, I find it extremely hard to believe that the Longbow didn't mount A2A missiles.

 

for reasons discussed i totally disproved DR evils posts which at the same time proving he doesnt read WTF is actually in his source which were contrary to his points

Edited April 7, 2019 by RanchSauce39