| Name / Designation | AH-64E Apache Guardian |
| Type / Role | Attack / Reconnaissance / Escort |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Boeing Defense, Space & Security |
| Introduced / Service Entry | 2011 |
| Operational Status | Active |
| Operators | USA, UK, India, Israel, Indonesia |
| Maximum Speed (Road) | 293 km/h (158 knots) |
| Cruise Speed | 265 km/h |
| Range | 480 km (Combat) / 1,900 km (Ferry) |
| Endurance | 2.5–3 hours |
| Service Ceiling | 6,400 m |
| Rate of Climb | 12.7 m/s |
| Length | 17.7 m |
| Height | 4.95 m |
| Rotor Diameter | 14.6 m |
| Empty Weight | 5,165 kg |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | 10,400 kg |
| Primary Armament | 30mm M230 Chain Gun |
| Secondary Armament | AGM-114 Hellfire / AIM-92 Stinger / Rockets |
| Hardpoints / Weapon Stations | 4–6 |
| Payload Capacity | 1,200–4,000 kg |
| Countermeasures | Flares, Chaff, ECM Suite |
| Radar Name | Longbow Fire Control Radar / AESA |
| Targeting System | FLIR / Laser Designator / NVG |
| Navigation System | GPS / INS / Digital Flight Control |
| Communication System | Secure Radio / Data Link |
| Defensive Systems | MAWS / RWR / IR Jammer |
| Engines | 2 × T700-GE-701D Turboshafts |
| Engine Model | T700-GE-701D |
| Power Output | 1,994 shp each |
| Fuel Capacity | 1,400 L |
| Crew | 2 (Pilot + Co-Pilot/Gunner) |
| Passenger Capacity | N/A |
| Cabin Configuration | Tandem cockpit |
| Cargo Load (Internal/External) | Up to 5,000 kg (External) |
| Night Operation Capability | Yes |
| All-weather Operation | Yes |
| Combat Proven | Yes |
The AH-64E Apache Guardian represents the cutting edge of U.S. Army attack helicopter technology. Built by Boeing Defense, Space & Security, this advanced variant of the iconic Apache series enhances battlefield lethality, survivability, and connectivity. Originally developed in the United States, the AH-64E entered service in 2011, providing next-generation capabilities to American and allied forces worldwide.
Equipped with twin T700-GE-701D turboshaft engines, the AH-64E achieves speeds up to 293 km/h (158 knots) and can operate at altitudes exceeding 6,000 meters. Its Longbow Fire Control Radar enables simultaneous tracking and engagement of multiple targets, while an AESA radar upgrade option improves situational awareness and countermeasure effectiveness. The helicopter’s FLIR, laser designator, and night vision systems support precision strikes in all-weather and low-visibility conditions.
Armed with a 30mm M230 chain gun, AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, AIM-92 Stingers, and 70mm rockets, the Apache Guardian delivers unmatched close air support and anti-armor capability. Its digital connectivity allows for real-time data sharing with ground forces and UAVs, reinforcing network-centric warfare operations.
The AH-64E is operational across the U.S., UK, India, Israel, and other allies, playing key roles in Iraq, Afghanistan, and counterterrorism missions. Its superior avionics, composite rotor blades, and advanced flight control systems ensure exceptional maneuverability and survivability in high-threat environments.
In recent defense procurement disclosures, the unit flyaway cost for a brand‐new AH-64E Apache Guardian is commonly cited at around $52 million USD. That figure typically reflects the airframe plus core subsystems (engines, avionics, mission systems) but excludes ancillary costs like training, spares, ground support equipment, munitions, and sustainment. In large foreign military sales packages, the total price per helicopter (including weapons, logistics, infrastructure, and long-term support) can rise significantly—some deals see per-aircraft effective cost rise by tens of millions. For instance, the Polish procurement of 96 Apache Guardians, valued at approximately $12 billion, implies an average per-unit total package cost well above the base airframe cost.
Budget planners in the U.S. and allied nations often assume that the “through life cost” of an Apache (acquisition + operations + sustainment) can double or triple the initial purchase price over its service lifespan. In the U.S. Army’s internal estimates, efforts to reduce flight-hour costs and maintenance burden have improved affordability—but still, the up-front unit cost remains a major investment.
Thus, for U.S. defense budget discussions or foreign military sale proposals, quoting ~$52 million USD as the base price is defensible, with strong caveats that real program costs may be much higher once full integration, weapons packages, and long-term support are factored in.
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