Boeing delivers record number of Apache Longbow Crew Trainers in 2009

Boeing delivered a record five Apache Longbow Crew Trainers (LCTs) in 2009 -- more than in any previous year -- and all five have been declared "ready for training."

The U.S. Army accepted two LCT deliveries at Fort Hood, Texas; one in Illesheim, Germany; and one at Fort Drum, N.Y. The Egyptian Air Force accepted the delivery of its first LCT in November, allowing aircrews to train from their home base.

Boeing has delivered a total of 29 LCTs to date.

"The Apache LCT we delivered to Fort Drum in December is the first device to include the new display-system upgrade," said Mark McGraw, Boeing vice president of Training Systems and Services. "It incorporates a new out-the-window display using projectors, screens and mirrors to dramatically improve the scene that is presented to the aircrew."

The Fort Drum LCT reflects the Apache Extended Block II configuration, ensuring concurrency with the AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopter. This LCT simulates the aircraft's fully integrated avionics and weapons, as well as a state-of-the-art modem that transmits real-time, secure, digitized battlefield information to air and ground forces.

Boeing is on contract to deliver three additional LCTs to the Army throughout the next two years. One will include a new Department of Defense-directed threat server and another is part of a National Guard modernization program. The third may be used as a development platform for future LCTs.

The Apache LCT is a full-mission, high-fidelity flight simulator that provides training for individuals, crews and maintenance test pilots. Deployed worldwide and used for in-theater training in Iraq and Afghanistan, the LCT supports battalions by allowing pilots ample opportunity to meet their training needs and rehearse missions. The LCTs also may be networked with additional trainers for collective training capability. The AH-64D Apache Longbow combat helicopter is produced by Boeing in Mesa, Ariz.

Source: Boeing