Netherlands receives first upgraded Apache E model
Boeing received an FMS contract through the US DoD in 2019 to remanufacture 28 RNLAF AH-64D Apache helicopters to the upgraded E V6 model. (Photo: US DoD)
Upgrading the Royal Netherlands Air Force Apaches to the AH-64E V6 model will increase the fleet's attack power, versatility and situational awareness.
The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) has received the first AH-64E V6 Apache model with improved performance, sensors and software, Boeing announced on 25 October.
The company received an FMS contract through the US DoD in 2019 to remanufacture 28 RNLAF AH-64D Apache helicopters to the upgraded E V6 model.
The delivery target for the last aircraft is set for 2025.
‘By upgrading from the D-model to the E-model Apache, the Royal Netherlands Air Force will gain a significant increase in attack power, versatility and situational awareness for decades to come,’ Kathleen Jolivette, Boeing VP of attack helicopter programmes and senior Mesa site executive, noted in a statement.
Boeing unveiled the 'Modernised Apache' concept, an extensive upgrade package of the AH-64E V6 during AUSA 2022.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, AH-64E V6 enhancements comprise extended range for the Longbow Fire Control Radar; RF interferometer passive ranging; Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) integration; Modernized Day Sensor Assembly with colour displays; and a maritime targeting capability.
The new Apache model will be compatible with long-range precision munitions currently in development, and it will support a future directed energy weapon.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
You may also like
More from Air Warfare
-
![France and UK to resume and upgrade Storm Shadow/SCALP production]()
France and UK to resume and upgrade Storm Shadow/SCALP production
The new ‘Entente Industrielle’ will work on a range of other projects to boost the UK economy and defence industry, including joint development on new high-tech frequency weapons and extended range air-to-air missiles.
-
![Boeing E-7A still in South Korean AEW&C competition, despite dropout reports]()
Boeing E-7A still in South Korean AEW&C competition, despite dropout reports
The E-7A is one of three aircraft submitted for the South Korean AEW&C II competition, which seeks to acquire four more aircraft of the type for its air force by 2028.
-
![France pushes for 80% workshare as FCAS programme nears critical development stage]()
France pushes for 80% workshare as FCAS programme nears critical development stage
Tensions on the programme have long simmered, with Airbus and Dassault recently clashing over workshare in June ahead of the Paris Air Show. The sixth-generation fighter programme is due to replace Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon jets beginning in 2040.
-
![US Air Force conducts climate testing with the T-7A Red Hawk]()
US Air Force conducts climate testing with the T-7A Red Hawk
The trainer aircraft recently completed the second round of extreme weather trials after enduring icy, windy and sunny conditions.
-
![US Navy acquires additional anti-submarine warfare kits for P-8A Poseidon aircraft]()
US Navy acquires additional anti-submarine warfare kits for P-8A Poseidon aircraft
The contract modification, awarded to Boeing, is worth $61.2 million and will support the US Navy’s (USN's) evolution of its P-8 Poseidon aircraft as continued upgrades are made to boost its capabilities and lethality.
-
![Union slams “self-sabotage” of UK government over Typhoon production]()
Union slams “self-sabotage” of UK government over Typhoon production
The UK Ministry of Defence remains resolute that the Typhoon sits at the heart of the country’s air defence capabilities and is focused on the aircraft’s potential export orders, despite its continued focus on F-35 procurement.
