Boeing to Start Production of New Generation of ApacheNovember 05, 2010
 Boeing will churn out 59 of the newest versions of its AH-64D Apache helicopters for the Army, according to an article in The Arizona Republic. A new $247 million deal with the U.S. Department of Defense is driving the production ramp up. The initial phase will also lead to the building of 690 new Apache Block III aircraft, according to the article. The first set of helicopters is set for delivery by October 2011, but production is to continue for at least 10 years. Boeing expanded its manufacturing facilities at its plant in Mesa, Arizona, by adding an additional assembly line. There are no plans, however, to hire more workers, according to The Arizona Republic. The new helicopters, of course, will be dramatically different than the first Apache, called the “A” model delivered in 1984. The Apache Block III aircraft is one of the world’s most advanced, multi-use combat helicopters, and Boeing says it has better flight control and greater network communications capabilities. “The roadmap for the Apache Block III program has been clearly defined in the U.S. The Army and Boeing are successfully working together to provide these advanced attack helicopters to soldiers in the field,” said Lieut. Col. Dan Bailey, Apache Block III product manager. (Photo courtesy: U.S. Army) |
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