Australia to Replace Tiger Helicopter with Boeing’s AH-64E Apache
It will cost $4.5 billion.
This morning, Defence Minister Linda Reynolds announced that the replacement for the much-troubled ‘Aussie Tiger’ armed reconnaissance helicopter (ARH) would be the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian. Australia will acquire 29 of the advanced Apaches from 2025, at a cost of A$4.5 billion, to replace 22 Tigers. The minister stated:
This new ARH capability will strengthen Australia’s armed reconnaissance force to better shape our strategic environment and deter actions against our national interest.
Defence considered a number of helicopters against key criteria of proven ability, maturity and an off-the-shelf operating system.
By Greg Waldron2021-01-15T01:44:00+00:00
Canberra has selected the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian to fulfil its Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) requirement from 2025.
The decision will see the Apache replace the Airbus Helicopters Tiger, which is currently in service with the Australian Army.
Source: Boeing Australia
Artist’s rendering of the AH-64E in Australian Army livery
“This new ARH capability will strengthen Australia’s armed reconnaissance force to better shape our strategic environment and deter actions against our national interest,” says defence minister Linda Reynolds.
“Defence considered a number of helicopters against key criteria of proven ability, maturity and an off-the-shelf operating system.”