British Army’s new Apaches come online as the force confronts new challenges
The British Army will operate 50 AH-64Es. (Photo: UK MoD/Crown Copyright)
The British Army will achieve Full Operational Capability with its fleet of 50 Apache AH-64E V6 attack helicopters by January 2026 after last year’s declaration of Initial Operational Capability (IOC) and the retirement of the last of its old Apaches at the end of March. The claim was made when details of the programme where share at Defence iQ’s International Military Helicopter conference in London on 28 February.
Thirty-eight of the AH-64Es, remanufactured using common parts from the army’s AH-64 MkI fleet, have found themselves in the UK, with the remaining 12 helicopters due before the end of the year.
Older aircraft have
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
CV90 revels in northern exposure while looking for new customers (updated April 2025)
The BAE Systems Hägglunds’ CV90 IFV has been around for decades but continual refreshing to maintain power and relevance, along with a healthy market at home in Sweden and neighbouring countries, has led to more than 1,700 vehicle orders with 10 countries.
-
Oshkosh notches JLTV win with Dutch order
The order further extends the Oshkosh Defense production line as AM General, selected for US orders, pushes to get vehicles out the door with no room for export orders.
-
US and Europe continue moves to boost 155mm munitions production
The new US facility for 155mm artillery projectiles is a reflection of a worldwide trend which has also seen Rheinmetall and BAE Systems working to improve capability in the same area.
-
Dronebuster product line and production capability expanded
DZYNE Technologies, the maker of Dronebuster counter-uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) devices, has announced plans to expand production and released details on a new version of the system. This follows the release of an all-in-one kit system earlier this year.
-
Ireland plans for radar capability in 2026
The Irish Government has previously outlined ambitious plans, the furthest reach of these being the possible purchase of fighter aircraft to provide a capability the country’s defence force currently doesn’t have. A more advanced procurement effort for a primary radar is being fast tracked.
-
US Army LTAMDS enters production phase
LTAMDS was approved in multiple flight trials and assessments.