Australia orders Apache helicopter as part of $3.5 billion sale
The AH-64E Apache stands as the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopter and represents the backbone of the U.S. Army attack helicopter fleet. (Photo: Boeing)
US State Department approves a $3.5 billion sale of Apache helicopters to Australia.
The US State Department has approved a possible foreign military sale to the government of Australia for AH-64E Apache helicopters and related equipment.
The sale has an estimated cost of $3.5 billion, according to the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements.
The government of Australia has requested to buy 29 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters along with associated weapons and equipment.
The weapons specified include: 85 Hellfire missiles, 29 M36E8 Hellfire captive air training missiles, M230E1 and M139 AWS automatic gun, M261 rocket launchers, M299 missile launchers and more.
The purchase of the Apache helicopters signifies the move away from the Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter, which has underperformed in the Australian Army’s hands.
This decision for the Apache reinforces commonality between the Australian and American militaries.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, the AH-64E includes numerous enhancements over its predecessor: improved digital connectivity; Joint Tactical Radio System; more powerful engines; capability to control UAVs; new composite rotor blades; improved landing gear, cruise speed, climb rate and payload capability.
It can be equipped with cutting-edge weapon systems, such as the AIM-92 Stinger, the AGM-114R Hellfire II and the M230 automatic cannon.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Paris Air Show 2025: GA-ASI unveils the PELE air-launched UAV]()
Paris Air Show 2025: GA-ASI unveils the PELE air-launched UAV
The air-launched PELE has been designed to extend the sensing capabilities of the MQ-9B and its user service through various payloads.
-
![Paris Air Show 2025: Portugal signs for sixth C-390 Millennium aircraft with 10 options for future European acquisition]()
Paris Air Show 2025: Portugal signs for sixth C-390 Millennium aircraft with 10 options for future European acquisition
Portugal was the second country to purchase the C-390 Millennium aircraft for its air force, originally signing for five aircraft in 2019. This order marks the first time an operator has signed an additional order for the C-390.
-
![Paris Air Show 2025: Lockheed says TR-3 upgrade “closing in” on completion]()
Paris Air Show 2025: Lockheed says TR-3 upgrade “closing in” on completion
The TR-3 configured F-35 aircraft have rolled off production lines since July 2024, but are still not yet combat capable and are still awaiting final sign-off for the software upgrade.
-
![Spanish Army’s VAMTAC drone acquisition progresses ongoing UAV investment]()
Spanish Army’s VAMTAC drone acquisition progresses ongoing UAV investment
Spain has made clear its intent to acquire a range of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), including those that will form part of its wider VAMTAC programme, announced in June 2025.
-
![Further funding allocated for Eurofighter Typhoon ECRS Mk2 radar programme]()
Further funding allocated for Eurofighter Typhoon ECRS Mk2 radar programme
The latest tranche of funding from the UK government comes ahead of the radar's integration into Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft from 2028.
-
![M-345 officially enters service as trainer for Italian Air Force]()
M-345 officially enters service as trainer for Italian Air Force
The Leonardo M-345 High-Efficiency Trainer (HET) basic/advanced trainer is similar to the M-346, which is the second part of the Italian Air Force’s training system, but is a substantially smaller and less powerful aircraft.
