Army's new Apache helicopter to create jobs at base near Andover
New Apache attack helicopters, which can detect 256 potential targets at once and prioritise threats in seconds, are undergoing test flights in Suffolk with the British Army.
Last updated 25th Jan 2022
A 20-year agreement has been signed with Boeing Defence UK to maintain and support the new fleet of Apache helicopters.
Training and support for the new helicopters will take place at the AAC centre with !st Aviation Brigade Combat Team at Middle Wallop.
The first period of the contract, to July 2025 with £287 million confirmed, is set to create more than 200 jobs in the UK, including 165 for the Army Aviation Centre at Middle Wallop near Andover and 45 at Wattisham Flying Station.
The new Boeing contract will cover aircraft design organisation services, maintenance, logistics support, plus pilot, maintainer and ground crew training. Boeing already has more than 40 employees working alongside the Army Air Corps providing training for the Mk1 Apache at the Attack Helicopter Training School at Middle Wallop.
Fourteen of the AH-64E Apache aircraft have been delivered to Wattisham Flying Station in Suffolk in recent months, with 36 more due to arrive by summer 2024.
The new helicopters, which have a top speed of 186mph, can detect targets up to a range of 10 miles.
The fleet will replace the Apache AH Mark 1, which will go out of service in 2024.
Defence procurement minister Jeremy Quin said:
"There can be no doubt these impressive Apache helicopters will help the Army sustain its battle-winning capabilities in future operations.
"In addition to its vital defence purpose, this cutting-edge technology will create and support hundreds of UK jobs."
The British Army has been using the Apache capability since 2005, with the attack helicopters used in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya.
Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Sir Chris Tickell KBE, said:
"I am delighted at the introduction of the AH-64E into British Army service, signifying our commitment to investing in the right equipment for our people to compete and win against the threats facing the UK."