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Australia’s first AH-64E “Guardian” Apache attack helicopter has entered final assembly at Boeing’s production facility in Mesa, Arizona.
Designated AT001, the helicopter will now undergo structural work, electrical wiring, major sub-assembly and mechanical installation before heading into flight testing later this year. Boeing’s factory in Mesa has already produced more than 2,800 Apache helicopters.
Christina Upah, Boeing Attack Helicopter Programs’ vice president, said the milestone “marks the beginning of a new era for Australia’s defence and industrial capabilities”.
She added, “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.”
A number of components for the Australian Apache fleet will be manufactured by local companies. These include Cablex wire harnesses and electrical panels, Axiom Precision Manufacturing’s avionics bay shelving and machined assemblies, Ferra’s vertical spar boxes, and Mincham’s composites and fairings.
The Australian Army has ordered 29 AH-64E Apaches, which will be based in Townsville, North Queensland. The first four are scheduled for delivery in late 2025. Boeing Defence Australia will support the fleet under an initial seven-year contract, creating over 230 new roles in Queensland spanning maintenance, engineering, aircrew and maintainer training, and logistics.
This acquisition comes as the Australian government moves to replace the ageing ARH Tiger helicopters with a “proven and mature, off-the-shelf manned armed helicopter” capable of delivering armed reconnaissance in both close and deep contested battlespaces. To support the new fleet, an additional AU$500 million has been earmarked to upgrade aviation facilities and infrastructure at Townsville.
Delivery of the Apaches is set to commence in 2025, with initial operating capability projected for 2026 and full operational capability expected by 2028.
