Second set of AH-64E Apache helicopters arrives at RAAF Base Townsville

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An Australian Army AH-64E Apache attack helicopter being offloaded at RAAF Base Townsville. Photo: LAC Chris Tsakisiris

A second pair of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters has arrived Down Under for the Australian Defence Force.

A second pair of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters has arrived Down Under for the Australian Defence Force.

The pair of attack helicopters, acquired through foreign military sales with the United States and manufactured by Boeing, is delivered by United States Air Force C-17 Globemaster to RAAF Base Townsville on November 4.

Each aircraft was unloaded by Australian Army and United States Air Force personnel working with US government contractors.

 
 

It’s understood that Australian Army AH-64E Apache, designation A64-603, has also received flight testing and a maintenance test flight at RAAF Base Townsville.

“Defence is acquiring a fleet of 29 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters through a foreign military sales case with the United States as part of Project LAND 4503 Apache Attack Helicopter,” according to Defence.

“The AH-64E Apache will replace the Tiger armed reconnaissance helicopter, bringing significant capability improvements that will enhance the lethality and tempo of land and amphibious force manoeuvres.

“AH-64E Apache deliveries to Australia commenced in September 2025. All 29 aircraft are schedule for delivery by 2029.”

The new helicopters are expected to provide critical aviation effects such as reconnaissance, communications and networking, firepower and offensive support for the Australian Army. All 29 Apache aircraft are expected to be delivered by 2029.

Australian Army personnel have previously been undertaking training in the United States and the United Kingdom to support the AH-64E’s introduction into service.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.
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