MoD orders new fleet of Apache helicopters

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced it has purchased 50 cutting-edge Apache attack helicopters in a deal worth $2.3 billion (£1.7 billion).

The new fleet of Apaches will be more capable then their predecessors, giving the British Army more of an edge over any future adversaries. The AH-64E model has the capacity to carry more weapons while being more fuel efficient, allowing it to operate in more demanding conditions for longer.

The new Apache AH-64E models are already in service with the US Army and have been purchased via a Foreign Military Sale with the US government.

The support and training arrangements for the new Apache AH-64E helicopters represent a further opportunity for UK suppliers, with service arrangement to be finalised over the next year and contracts in place toward the end of the decade. It is expected the arrangements will support around 350 jobs.

Commenting on the purchase of the new fleet, Fallon said: “This deal will give the British Army an outstanding helicopter at good value for money for the UK taxpayer.

“It is part of our plan for more ships, more  aircraft, more troops available at readiness, better equipment for special forces, more being spent on cyber. That plan, backed by a rising defence budget will enable us to deal with the increased threats to our country.”

Fallon added: “In the longer term, I want these new Apaches to be maintained in the UK, and for UK companies to do most of the work. This includes Leonardo Helicopters, who have developed substantial knowledge and experience in the support of our current Apache fleet over the last decade and will continue to support the helicopters until their eventual retirement in around eight years’ time.

Tony Douglas, chief executive officer at the MOD’s Defence Equipment and Support organisation, said: “This is a momentous day for the UK Armed Forces, with these latest generation helicopters set to provide troops with a world-beating capability for decades to come.

“The MOD’s deal with the US brings UK benefits too; a range of UK companies are benefiting from working on the global Apache programme and the support and training arrangements of these new attack helicopters presents further exciting opportunities for UK industry.”