Boeing intends to support the AH-64 until the 2060s to ensure its continued operation.
A wind tunnel test model was showcased at the Vertical Flight Society’s 75th Annual Forum & Technology Display.
Boeing has unveiled concept footage of a swift Apache attack helicopter during the Vertical Flight Society’s 75th Annual Forum & Technology Display, and it bears a striking resemblance.
Dubbed the Advanced AH-64 Block 2 Compound, this concept will act as a temporary measure in the U.S. Army Future Vertical Lift (FVL) program.
Surprisingly, the advanced model doesn’t appear as technologically advanced when compared to the AH-56 Cheyenne, which took its maiden flight in 1967.
Developed from the Army’s Advanced Aerial Fire Support System program, only ten units were ultimately produced.
Ahead of its time, the Cheyenne was a remarkable helicopter that was constrained by the technological limitations of its era.
Although the AH-64 Apache’s technology draws inspiration from the Cheyenne, the development has now completed a full circle. Along with modifications to the powerplant and controls, the weapons “wings” and 30mm chain gun have also undergone revisions.
Featuring a rear-mounted pusher propeller, a substantial vertical fin, and an innovative engine exhaust configuration, the new Block 2 Compounds exude a sense of futurism.
As per Defence Blog, Boeing is firmly committed to ensuring the long-term capability of the Apache fleet in the highly complex multi-domain battlefield of the future, extending all the way until 2060.
At the Vertical Flight Society’s 75th Annual Forum & Technology Display, a wind tunnel test model was prominently showcased.
The new Block II Compound would enhance the aircraft’s speed to 185 knots, increase the payload capacity to 5,900 pounds for hover-out of ground effect (HOGE) during takeoff, and extend the range to 460 nautical miles.
