Boeing has identified a market of 15 countries that require either new build attack helicopters or need upgrades to their existing AH-64 Apache fleets. It believes the world market covers 200-450 aircraft over the next 10 years.
Apache business development director Mike Burke says the list of opportunities bodes well for the Apache programme: "We sold 12 aircraft to Greece and that contract included an option for four additional machines, so that is one opportunity.
"Israel is in the process of upgrading its fleet and there are several other countries in the Middle East that have Apaches and want to upgrade to the -D model. In Singapore we have sold two different blocks of eight and 12 Apaches, the first being Block 1 -D models and the second Block 2. Singapore is an excellent customer and we are always talking about its requirements."
Improvements
The Apache is also in the frame for one of the most lucrative contracts, in Taiwan, where it is pitted against the rival Bell AH-1Z Zulu Cobra. The US is in government-to-government talks with Taiwan and has sanctioned the release of pricing and availability data from both Boeing and Bell.
An order for the first batch of 30 aircraft is due next year, with aircraft being fielded between 2007 and 2008.
Meanwhile, plans to extend the Apache's lifespan to 2030 and beyond are continuing with development work on the Block 3 upgrade in full swing. Boeing has been given funding for fiscal 2005 and the US military is in the process of building its budget for the period 2006-2011, which is when the bulk of Block 3 work would be completed.
Block 3's key goal is to equip the Apache to operate as part of the US Army's Objective Force with network-centric capabilities. The plans call for integration of open system architecture, with the Apache 'plugging in' via the new Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS).
The Block 3 package includes a new composite four-blade main rotor, re-engining the fleet with General Electric T700-701Ds, Level 4 UAV control and drive system improvements.
Boeing has already begun flight testing the Lockheed Martin Arrowhead Modernised Targeting Acquisition and Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision System (M-TADS/PNVS), which will be retrofitted to the US Army's AH-64A and -D fleet ahead of the Block 3 upgrade.
PAUL DERBY
Source: Flight Daily News
