The AH-64 Apache helicopter is considered one of the most revolutionary military vehicles in history. It evolved significantly from the early 20th century, rendering troop movements less vulnerable to enemy fire and allowing them to traverse terrains with minimal resistance. However, with the advent of airpower, technology has once again shifted the balance of power, turning those who were once hunters into the hunted.

1.Past, Present, and Future

As of the end of 2020, a total of 2,400 units were produced worldwide, serving 18 foreign user forces. The Apache is sure to be a common sight among airshow attendees, wowing crowds with aerobatic displays featuring acrobatic displays and aerobatic displays. Almost 45 years have passed since the prototype took flight, a journey that has stood the test of time and adapted to meet new operational requirements. Now, forward operators to this day are still placing orders to this remarkable machine. However, the future could be a bleak near-term, as plans to reduce Apache numbers by 2027 can be seen as a grim reality for many armed forces worldwide.

While ground-attacked sorties are no longer as intense, it would be the helicopter gunships that truly defined the importance of maneuverability, firepower, and stealth, combined in one package. Rotary attack helicopters are the most feared weapons platform of any armored division. Arguably the most famous of all, Boeing’s AH-64 Apache sets the standard for gunship design that remains at the cutting edge even today. We have become accustomed to flight displays showing their unique design and abilities, but here are some facts that might surprise even the most avid aircraft fanatics.

2.From Prototype to Production

Incredibly, the early prototype AH-64 dates back to 1975 when the US Department of Defense embarked on a desperate journey to replace its aging AH-1 Cobras, the final design concept being awarded to Hughes Helicopters for what would become the AH-64 Apache. The early prototype is unmistakably that of the final AH-64 production model, the pre-production version adopting a lower tailplane design and revised nose section. Undergoing an extensive 11-year development program, the AH-64 first entered operational service in 1986.

3. Vital Statistics

When you would be forgiven for thinking gunships are small agile machines, but taking a closer look at the mighty AH-64 Apache reveals a different picture. The iconic gunship is much bigger than many people think. The numbers are surprising: 58 feet in length, 48 feet across, and almost 13 feet tall put the Apache in the same size category as the average school bus. Equipped with twin Rolls-Royce RTM322 turboshafts, producing a combined output of 4540 horsepower, it allows a cruise speed of 182 mph and a “never to be exceeded” top speed of 227 mph, both very impressive for rotary-powered aircraft weighing up to 21,000 lbs. The next time you see one of these remarkable machines effortlessly twisting and turning in the skies above, remember just how big they actually are.

4. Function Over Form

Unlike their fixed-wing brothers, helicopters operate at a much lower speed, removing the need for super-streamlined fuselages. However, this lower speed comes with some unwanted downsides. Operating at lower altitudes and airspeeds does add a greater risk of hostile engagements. The twin engines generate a huge amount of heat that could potentially place the aircraft at greater risk from enemy infrared-guided missiles. Placing the engines as far back and high as possible minimizes this risk, reducing downdraft helicopter noise, to disperse heat effectively.

5. Cockpit Design and Configuration

The AH-64 Apache is a highly complex piece of hardware requiring a crew of two, resulting in the familiar tandem seating layout. Each cockpit is equipped with advanced avionics for the gunship’s flight, navigational, operational, and defensive abilities, any would-be pilot needs to complete basic flight training lasting 9 weeks. Under normal operational conditions, the front seat is reserved for the weapons officer, while the pilot occupies the rear cockpit; however, the AH-64 is equipped with dual control systems allowing the front occupant to take control of the aircraft in the event of an emergency.

6. Performance Abilities

For the greatest advantage, Apache pilots have overwhelming maneuverability and agility, able to operate in confined airspace where space is limited. The AH-64 can only lean slightly within its rotor diameter of 48 feet to operate from smaller forward bases where space is restricted. If pilots find themselves in a tricky situation, they can rely on the Apache’s agility, capable of +3.5g to -0.5g maneuvers.

7. It’s All About The Firepower – Guns

Mounting a big gun under the Apache’s nose may seem like a redundant arrangement when missiles and rockets are readily available, but the importance of close-range firepower cannot be overstated. Designed by Hughes Helicopters in the early 70s, the M230 chain gun fires 30mm explosive-tipped shells capable of penetrating light armor or aircraft at ranges of 500 meters. Each round is timed to explode on impact for maximum damage. Now for the clever part, an optical and computerized fire control system allows the Apache to deliver the goods accurately, regardless of the target’s movements.

8. Aircraft Survivability

Despite the Apache’s appearance and size, Hughes Helicopters designed the AH-64 to be robust and strong enough to withstand enemy fire that would normally result in an aircraft loss. Using composite boron-kevlar armor plates and blast shields not only secure the crew but also serve to protect vital aircraft systems. Recognizing the worst-case scenario can never be fully eliminated, the AH-64 was designed to withstand forced landings, this isn’t any rash claim of invulnerability, simply an attempt to cover every conceivable eventuality.

9. It’s All About The Firepower – Missiles And Rockets

Aside from the chain-mounted chain gun, the Apache carries all of its offensive weaponry on wing-mounted pylons, two per side, with an array of interchangeable ordnance to suit specific mission requirements. More readily, obsolescent guided rockets use the exceptional on-target lighting ability combined with flexible payload makes the Apache a potent battlefield weapon. Most frequently ordered are Hellfire missile racks and dual rocket pods.