The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential foreign military sale (FMS) of AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters and associated equipment to the UK.
Under the estimated $3bn sale, the UK Government has requested the remanufacture of 50 WAH-64 Mk 1 attack helicopters to AH-64E Apaches with 110 T-700-GE-701D engines, and the refurbishment of 53 AN / ASQ-170 modernised target acquisition and designation sights, 53 AN / AAR-11 modernised pilot night-vision sensors, and 52 AN / APG-78 fire control radars.
The package also includes the upgrade of 55 radar electronics units (longbow component), 52 AN / APR-48B modernised radar frequency interferometers, 60 AAR-57(V) 3 / 5 common missile warning systems with 5th sensor and improved countermeasure dispenser, 120 embedded global positioning systems (GPS) with inertial navigation , and 300 Apache aviator integrated helmets.
Approved by the US State Department, the sale also includes AN / AVR-2B laser detecting sets, AN / APR-39D(V)2 radar signal detecting sets, integrated helmet and display sight systems (IHDSS-21), manned-unmanned teaming international, KOR-24A Link 16 terminals, M206 infrared countermeasure flares, M211 and M212 advanced infrared countermeasure munitions flares, and identification friend or foe transponders.
The UK has also requested ammunition, communication equipment, tools and test equipment, training devices, simulators, spare and repair parts, support equipment, personnel training, and training equipment, as well as other related elements of logistics support.
The WAH-64 Mk 1 upgrade and refurbishment provides the UK with assets vital to deter and defend against potential threats, while helping the country to become a more capable defensive force. It will also provide key elements required for interoperability with US
The Apache helicopters will be used by the country to conduct various missions, including counter-terrorism and counter-piracy operations.
The sale also contributes to the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to improve the security of a Nato ally, which has been, and continues to serve as an important force for political stability and economic progress worldwide.
Boeing, Lockheed Martin, General Electric, Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training, as well as Longbow Limited Liability have been named as prime contractors of the FMS programme.
Image: A WAH64 Apache attack helicopter during the 2005 Royal International Air Tatoo at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, England. Photo: courtesy of BobThePirate, Pirate2000.
