Israel Orders Advanced Apache Attack Helicopters
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
Israel has agreed to purchase 12 advanced AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing, with deliveries expected in the early 2030s. The new helicopters feature upgraded radar, enhanced sensors, and advanced communication systems, including the ability to integrate with drones. This acquisition aims to significantly boost the Israeli Air Force's combat helicopter capabilities.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israel will acquire 12 new AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing.
- The advanced helicopters are expected to arrive in the early 2030s.
- The new variant features an upgraded radar with double the previous range.
- The helicopters will have enhanced communication and data-sharing capabilities with drones.
- The deal follows a potential U.S. sale of up to 30 helicopters approved in January 2026.
Israel has signed a deal to acquire 12 new AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing, marking a significant upgrade to its air force capabilities. These advanced helicopters, expected to arrive in the early 2030s, represent the latest version of the Apache, incorporating enhanced radar, improved sensors, and advanced communication systems.
The acquisition follows a potential sale of up to 30 helicopters approved by the U.S. in January 2026, valued at approximately $3.8 billion. The new AH-64E variant, designated as 'Version 6' by defense sources, features a significantly upgraded AN/APG-78 fire control radar with an extended range of about 16 kilometers, double that of previous versions. It also includes electro-optical and infrared systems for improved target identification and night operations.
These new Apaches will enhance Israel's ability to conduct ground attacks, engage armored vehicles, and provide close air support. The AH-64E boasts a range of approximately 480 kilometers and a top speed of around 304 kilometers per hour. Notably, the new helicopters will feature Multi-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) Mission Control (MUM-T) capabilities, allowing crews to receive and integrate data from drones and other aerial platforms, and in some configurations, even control them.
The Israeli Air Force has operated Apache helicopters since 1990, currently using the AH-64A "Peten" and AH-64D "Saraph" models. The specific squadron assignments for the 12 new helicopters and their final Israeli armament configuration have not yet been disclosed. This procurement aims to maintain and upgrade the air force's combat helicopter fleet with next-generation sensing, communication, and data-sharing systems.
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