After a three-day journey originating from the manufacturing facilities in Mesa, Arizona, the 1-229th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, became the first operational unit to receive the AH-64E version 6 Apache helicopter Jan. 14.
The V6 is equipped with an open systems design including the latest communications, navigation, sensor and weapon systems. The model has multiple upgrades with the improved Lockheed-Martin Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision System, which includes a new integrated infrared laser for easier target designation and enhanced infrared imagery capabilities. The GEN3 Day Sensor Assembly doubles the sensorâs field of view and increases resolution. The addition of color imagery improves target detection and identification.