First Boeing AH-64E Apache for Australia Enters Final Assembly
March 26, 2025
The first Australian Apache Guardian, designated AT001, will be produced in Arizona with parts from Australian suppliers, including Cablex wire harnesses and electrical panels, Axiom Precision Manufacturing avionics bay shelving and other machined assemblies, Ferra vertical spar boxes, and Mincham composites and fairings. The aircraft will undergo structural, electrical wiring, major sub-assembly and mechanical installation in final assembly before entering flight testing mid-year.
Christina Upah, vice president of Boeing Attack Helicopter Programs said that: “The induction of the Australian Army’s first E-model Apache into final assembly marks the beginning of a new era for Australia’s defence and industrial capabilities. We’re proud to build and sustain the world’s most advanced, proven attack reconnaissance helicopter together with Australia, as we work to strengthen their fleet and deliver their first Apaches later this year.”
The Australian Army is to receive 29 AH-64E Apaches, to replace the survivors of 22 Tiger ARH helicopters ordered in December 2001 and delivered to Australia from 15 December 2004. ARH deliveries were supposed to be completed by June 2010 with Full operating capability planned for December 2011. There were early problems, and final operating capability was achieved on 18 April 2016. Australia’s Capability, Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG) issued a request for information to replace their Tiger helicopters in July 2019.
The Australian Government finalised an AUD 5.5 Billion order for 29 Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters on 9 May 2022. An additional sum of up to AUD 500 million was set aside to upgrade facilities to support the new helicopters.
The Australian Army’s 1st Aviation Regiment, currently operating the Tiger ARH and based at Robertson Barracks near Darwin (Northern Territory), will relocate to Garbutt Barracks at RAAF Base Townsville (Queensland) where the first four aircraft are scheduled for delivery in late 2025. The 1st Aviation Regiment will transition to the Apache from 2025, well before the Tiger’s planned out of service date (OSD) in 2028. Initial Operational Capability is expected to be achieved by 2026 and all 29 aircraft and training systems are to be delivered by 2029 at the latest.
The government is investing nearly AUD 700 million to upgrade RAAF Base Townsville to accommodate the AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters.
Boeing Defence Australia will support the Australian Army in sustaining the Apache fleet under an initial seven-year contract. More than 230 new jobs will be created in Queensland spread across maintenance, engineering, aircrew and maintainer training, and logistics.
