Apache News 2006

The Boeing CompanyIntegrated Defense Systems5000 East McDowell RoadMesa, Arizona85215

THE AH-64D APACHE LONGBOW WITH A ROCK SOLID COMBINATION OF RAWPOWER AND INNATE SOPHISTICATIONCONTINUES TO FULFILL PROMISES MADE TO THOSE WHO FLY AND MAINTAIN THE AIRCRAFT. THOSE PROMISES, ALONG WITH THE NEXT WAVE OF TECHNOLOGY INSERTIONS INCLUDING BLOCK III WILL INCREASE THE AIRCRAFT’S ABILITY TO FIGHT AND SURVIVE WELL INTO THE 21ST CENTURY.

WORLDWIDE, APACHE FORCES CONTINUE TO PLAY A VITAL ROLE INKEEPING THE PEACE.

CONTINUE THE

MISSION

CONTENTSU.S. ARMYMISSIONSTask Force Attack...................P1Seeds of Liberty.....................P6At the Tip of the Spear........... P14On the Front Line...................P16

F U T U R EMISSIONSBuilding Blocks Round III........P19The Future Apache Longbow..P26The Foreseeable Future..........P31Apache Is Plugged In..............P34

INTERNATIONALMISSIONSAerobatic Apaches.................P37Intimidating Presence.............P42

News Briefs....................... .P48What a Year It’s Been........P54 A

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APACHE NEWS2006

Cavalry.

The word alone sparks vivid images of uniformedsoldiers, armed with side arms and rifles, astridehorses galloping through uncharted frontiers todefend the fort and its people. That was a way oflife in the 1860s after the Civil War.

Fast forward roughly 150 years, factor in tech-nology, and the changed image is exponentiallymore breathtaking. Today, Air Cavalry soldiers –like those in the 1st Battalion, 277th Aviation

Regiment (1-227 AVN) – operate in flight suits while strapped into Apache Longbow attack helicopters. Instead of rifles, they’re fitted with rockets, Hellfire missiles, a 30mm cannon andhigh tech tools that provide situational awareness and communications connectivity.

Despite all the new technology, today’s Cavalry soldiers and their 19th century counterparts perform strikingly similar missions. And, as 1-227 AVN learned in Iraq, scout/reconnaissance,convoy and security escort, battlefield shaping operations, and close combat attack continue tobe part of the job that results in saving lives.

1-227 AVN – Taking the Fight to the Enemy

U.S. ARMY

MISSION 001

The Cavalry sabre, like the Apache,symbolizes strength in battle.

LTC Ron Lewis, Commander, 1-227thAttack Helicopter Battalion, 1stCavalry Division - back from Iraq.

0010011TASK FORCE ATTACK.001001101001011001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110

CONTINUED PAGE 2Ô

01

Apache was in the fight. While just the presenceof an Apache made an impact, the firepower ofthe AH-64D made an impression time and timeagain on the aviators that flew and on the sol-diers on the ground that watched as the enemysuffered the effects of the Apache’s tremendousweapons capabilities. “The Hellfire missileworks – and it makes a heck of a secondaryexplosion when it takes out a truckload of rock-et-propelled grenades (RPGs) and explosives,”Lewis said.

Of course, while taking the fight to the enemy –in the urban canyons or in the country’s barrendesert terrain – the Apache sustained a lot offire from surface-to-air missiles, RPGs and can-non and gunfire. Lewis said that he and the bat-talion’s aviators “gave more than we receivedand this aircraft always brought us back.”

The Apache ground crews working in the for-ward operating bases and the forward arearearming and refueling points, although not indirect contact with the enemy, were no less crit-ical to the success of the mission. Groundcrews recovered their aircraft after each mis-sion, made immediate repairs to rotor blades,fuel tanks, wind screens, hydraulic lines, wiringharnesses and myriad other parts and systemsof the Apache – refueled and rearmed the air-craft, and returned the aircrews and the aircraftback to the troops in record time – day andnight; and in all weather conditions.

The entire battalion knew that the durable andreliable Apache Longbow and the professionalskills and dedication of the pilots and maintain-ers make the difference to the troops on theground. Working together, the members of thebattalion proved themselves and saved anuntold number of American lives..

InCombatFrom the moment boots hit ground in Iraq, the1-227 AVN troops were in motion, fighting inurban centers, keeping the main supply routesopen and providing security for coalition forces.They also conducted reconnaissance aroundforward operating bases, escorted general offi-cers, utility and medical evacuation aircraft andfought the fights that the rugged Apache wasdesigned and built for.

The pilots andmaintainers were keenly

aware that the Apache in flight was a

fearsome deterrent to theenemy and a welcome

friend to the ground troops.

It was 1st Cavalry Division troops that first grewfond of the saying, “When Apaches are flying,we ain’t dying.”

Ground commanders working with the Apachesconducting overwatch noted that no enemyfighter was brave enough to stand up and deto-nate improvised explosive devices when thebattalion’s attack helicopters were in the air, nordid the enemy fire mortars or rockets at the for-ward operating bases with the Apaches over-head. The troops on the ground felt a sense ofsecurity within their formations when the

U.S. ARMYMISSION 001

InCommandLTC Ron Lewis commanded 1-227 AVN for theU.S. Army’s 1st Cavalry Division. His soldiersand Apache Longbow helicopters were sta-tioned in Iraq in support of Operation IraqiFreedom II from April 2004 through March 2005.The men, women and military assets underLewis’ command were counted on to do multi-ple missions for various force elements includ-ing the Army’s 1st Cavalry Division, 1st InfantryDivision, 1st Armored Division and the U.S.Marines.

InCountryApache Longbows and crews flew and foughtin An-Najaf, Al Kut, Diwaniya, Fallujah, Balad,North Arbil, An Pac, Baghdad, Tajii and SadrCity – always doing their job eliminating insur-gent combat activities, and more importantlysaving lives. “The unit’s lethal, agile Apacheslogged 19,000 flight hours in the Lot 7 ApacheLongbows with the moving map display thatallowed aviators to pan down on the map,zoom in, take a look at the aerial view, take alook at wires and make certain they could accu-rately reach the objective,” said Lewis.

The Apache Longbow is designed formulti-missions operations.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

APACHE AIRCREW RECEIVES KEY AWARDArmy CPT Ryan Welch, an AH-64D Apache Longbow pilot, and CW4 Justin Taylor, an Apache Longbowgunner, both from Company C, 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team of the1st Cavalry Division, received the 2005 Frederick L. Feinberg Award, which is given for outstandingachievement by helicopter pilots. Welch and Taylor were patrolling the skies near Camp Taji, Iraq, on thenight of Oct. 16, 2004, when they responded to faint cries for help over their radio. The ApacheLongbow, which seats only two, showed its versatility when Welch and Taylor used the aircraft as a res-cue platform for two injured Kiowa helicopter pilots. After placing the more injured of the two aviators inthe co-pilot's seat, Welch and the other aviator strapped themselves to the outside of the fuselage nearthe cockpit. Taylor then flew the Apache more than 12 miles at 90 mph over enemy territory to evacu-ate the injured men to a combat support hospital for medical attention. According to a Department ofDefense news article on the rescue, one of the medics asked Welch if he was a medical flight pilot."You should have seen the look on his face when I told him, 'Nope, I'm an Apache pilot,'" Welch said.(see story page 5)

CPT Ken Baker, Alpha Company Commander,1-227 AVN: Feedback from PFCs to battalion com-manders was that Apaches flying overhead toldinsurgents – “Not today.”

02 03

TEAMWORK AND TRUST IN 1-227 AVN… THE STUFFHEROES ARE MADE OF

Apache aviators talk about teamwork. And they live it everyday.Especially in the 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment (1-227AVN), which returned recently from service Operation IraqiFreedom II. Teamwork in 1-227 AVN was evident betweenpilots and their co-pilot/gunners, and when two or moreApaches deployed for a mission. Teamwork was demonstratedby maintainers and support personnel daily as they armed,fueled and readied their Apaches around the clock. And thatteamwork – tested and proven in conflict – echoes throughoutthe testimony of these soldiers.

“I wanted to see where we were going,” saidWelch, “but I had no idea what we were in forwhen we took off. It was windy. It was tolerable,but very noisy and I was happy to climb off theaircraft. It was a good landing and I hope neverto do it again.”

The landing at the support hospital’s pad wassmooth and the injured pilots were quicklyloaded onto litters and taken for treatment. TheApache pilots enjoyed the reaction of the med-ical staff when they saw a helicopter gunshipsitting out on the pad in the middle of the night.Welch enjoyed responding to an inquiry fromthe medical staff about how long he’d been fly-ing Medevac. “I’m an Apache pilot. I don’t knowanything about Medevac,” Welch recalled. “Itrust him (Taylor). We had a job to do and wedid it.

“We were very fortunate to be in a positionwhere we could help our brothers out. We’re alla brotherhood. We won’t leave anyonebehind.”.

‘There’s nothing routine about aself-extraction rescue’ – CPT Ryan Welch

CW2 Justin Taylor, back in Iraq for a secondtour of duty, was immediately alert when heheard the distress call over his Apache’s radio.

During a routine night flight with co-pilot/gunnerCPT Ryan Welch, Taylor attempted to makecontact with the person initiating the emergencycall. Unable to confirm that another helicopterwas down somewhere in Baghdad, Welch con-tacted battalion headquarters and coordinatedwith their Apache wingman helicopter.Meanwhile, Taylor pulled power and flew lowlooking for a helicopter and guys on the ground.

Remarkably, they found what they were lookingfor. Welch spotted the downed pilot’s strobeand then quickly agreed with Taylor to land. “Weunderstood from radio communications that oneof the two crew members on the ground wasinjured and unable to walk,” Taylor recalled.Welch climbed out of the Apache carrying hisM4 rifle and 9mm automatic. “As he left insearch of the two pilots, Welch told me to takeoff and leave him (and the other two pilots) if thehelicopter started taking enemy fire,” Tayloradded.

Though neither man can recall just how longWelch was away from the aircraft for his 100-200 yard dash across open terrain, Taylor said,“It was a big relief when I saw, through our FLIRsystem, CPT Welch and the other pilot carryinganother pilot back to the aircraft.”

Both Apache pilots knew that getting to safetyquickly was critical. Logistics became equallycritical as Welch determined that the injuredpilot would have to go in the front seat. Taylorkept the aircraft ready to fly from his pilot’s seat.Welch strapped the injured pilot in the frontcockpit and used Taylor’s carabiner hook tosecurely harness the second pilot on thekneepad to the outside of the helicopter. Welchclimbed on the left forward avionics bay, clippedhimself to the handhold on the helicopter,thumped on the windshield on Taylor’s left andgave him a “thumbs up.”

‘When our brothers on the ground need us – we’re going to be there’ – LTC Ron Lewis

In April 2004, a convoy of soldiers and 25 vehicles hauling fuel for re-sup-

ply were ambushed while en route to Fallujah. Caught by ever increasing rain of small arms

fire from the enemy and pinned down by mortar fire, the soldiers in the convoy fought to

their last clip of ammo as they radioed for desperately needed assistance.

With wounded soldiers needing rapid medical assistance the unit staff was elated to hear a

radio response confirming that two AH-64D Apache Longbows from 1-227 AVN were

inbound to their location. “CW2 Shane Colton and CW3 Chuck Fortenberry were in one of

the two Apaches,” said LTC Ron Lewis, commander of 1-227 AVN. “The two Apache teams

used their 30mm cannons to attack and destroy the enemy positions that were delivering

much of the fire on the convoy.”

The helicopters stayed on station, flying overhead to secure the situation and await ground

reinforcements. Just as the situation stabilized the enemy fired a surface-to-air missile that

struck the Apache and brought it down. “Two great Apache pilots, Air Cavalrymen,

Fortenberry and Colton,” were lost at that instant,” he said. “They were at the top of their

game, focused on our role to provide critical recon and security for those troopers on the

ground.” Lewis added that the bond between air and ground troops “is almost

indescribable.”

“I will never forget the sacrifices they made,” he said. “They are heroes in many eyes.”.

Heroic Duo – CPT Ryan Welch and CW2Justin Taylor (left) demonstrated theApache’s unique self-extraction capabilities.


04 05

When Iraqi citizens held up their ink-stained blue fingers on Election DayJan. 30, 2005, they sent a message to the world that a new era of Iraqidemocracy had arrived.

U.S. ARMY

MISSION 002

And no one could have been more pleased that daythan the soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 1st AviationRegiment (1-1 AVN), who sent a powerful warning toinsurgents by hovering over Iraqi polling placesthroughout the day in their AH-64A Apachehelicopters.

Apache crews from 1-1 AVN flew ominously fromdawn until well past dusk over Iraqi polling places inSamara and nearby cities to ensure the safety of Iraqicitizens voting for their new democratic government.

The effort was called “Seeds of Liberty.”

0010011SEEDS OF LIBERTY.00100110100101110001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110

OIF II Enables 1-1 AVN Apaches

to sow the

Apache helicopters played a keyrole in the first Iraqi democraticelections.

LTC David Moore, Commander, 1-1AVN, led his unit in Iraq, extendingthe legacy of the “Big Red One.”

06 07

CONTINUED PAGE 8Ô

ing overwatch because of the ‘cone of silence’– the area immediately underneath an Apache –where enemy activity is virtually non-existent.The enemy knows the capabilities of the AH-64Apache.”

Golden noted that value of contractor support“on our team in Iraq.” He cited Brad Hudson,the Boeing contract field service representativewho spent the year in Iraq with the soldiers of1-1 AVN, as an “invaluable resource” and a“critical member of the team.”

Hudson said he enjoyed his tour of duty, noting,“The 1-1 AVN soldiers were always willing tolearn. And I was also willing to learn because I

was back on the A model after being off the air-craft for seven and a half years.”

He added that the AH-64D “is going to be a lotmore maintenance-friendly than the A becausethe aircraft’s going to actually tell you what’swrong with it and it’s going to tell the guy whereto start troubleshooting the problem.”

Moore called Hudson “our CFSR-extraordinaire– a one-of-a-kind expert in fixing and teaching;absolutely committed to his supported unit…”

“I haven't ever experienced a professional quitelike Brad -- doubt they make a similar model of‘Robo’ CFSR anymore,” he added.

SPC Robert Hodgson, HSC 601st ASB, said,“When you’re out working on a flight line it’sreally hard to see the impact you have on theoverall war until you look at a newspaper andsee that a helicopter you work on just blew up avehicle-borne explosive device at your post.Then, at that point, you really understand howmuch you really affect the war.”

CW4 Bob Fullerton, a 1-1 AVN pilot who flewApaches in both OIF I and OIF II, saw great dif-ferences between his two tours of duty.

Although they logged hundreds of hours on that historic day, Apache crews from 1-1 AVN never fireda shot – a farewell message of sorts from aircrews who knew they were flying the last Active ArmyAH-64As the Army would ever take into combat. From now on, everyone knew, combat duty for theActive Army would fall to the next-generation Apache Longbow. (Note: AH-64A Apaches from ArmyReserve Component units continue to support fielding duties around the world.)

The Gunfighters, as they are known throughout the “Big Red One,” remained versatile assets inmany more ways throughout their year-long support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II (OIF II) that endedin February 2005.

“I was amazed to see how many people wereshowing up at the polling stations.

“It was already 1700 (5 p.m.) and the lines werestill fairly long, so the commander on theground elected to keep the polling stationsopen until about 1900 so everyone in line couldget through the polling stations.

“We helped ensure they had the right to vote fora free Iraqi government.”

‘Absolutely Critical Asset’ COL Walter Golden, brigade commander, 4thBrigade, 1st Infantry Division, praised 1-1 AVNas an “absolutely critical asset” for his mission.

“We deployed them to north central Iraq,” herecalled. “We were at a base near Tikrit and 1-1AVN and their Apaches were much in demandby the division and the forward brigade combatteams that were based in what we referred to as areas of operations danger.

“Many of the ground commanders from brigadelevel all the way down to platoon sergeants andenlisted men in the formations that were goingout doing the dangerous combat patrols on theground in Iraq every day wanted to have theApaches from 1-1 AVN flying overhead, provid-


1-1 AVN Plays Vital RolePilots from 1-1 AVN logged more than 14,000hours while providing security for vital convoysand soldiers, and battling insurgents duringOperation Baton Rouge, a combat mission toretake the cities of Mosul, Kirkuk, An Najaf,Bayji and Samara.

Through it all, they maintained a mission launchrate of 98 percent.

The soldiers from 1-1 AVN returned to theirbase in Katterbach, Germany, in March 2005,proud of their service and ready to take the leapinto the next generation.

“Teamwork is the hallmark of the great soldiersthat I lead and have lead into combat,” saidLTC David Moore, who commanded 1-1 AVNduring their tour in Iraq. “We prepared as ateam to deploy to OIF II. We deployed as ateam, we fought as a team, we returned as ateam. And that team defined the success ofTask Force Danger from an aviation attack heli-copter perspective.”

Moore called being the only attack helicopterbattalion in the Division a “dubious honor.”

“You are the one who accomplishes the missionor does not accomplish the mission,” he said.“We accomplished the mission for Task ForceDanger in its area of operation 1,500 times.”Task Force Danger is the Division’s task force. It includes all the brigade combat teams thatform the multinational division northwest. TaskForce Danger formed for the purpose of thedivision’s mission and it broke apart or transi-tioned to a division structure upon accomplish-ment of OIF II.

COL Walter Golden praised the Apache as“absolutely critical.”

“The number of missions that we flew in theaterwas more than our battalion ever flew in anyoperation, whether it was in Bosnia or Kosovoor in garrison in Germany,” he said. “We flew14,000 hours, three times more than the opera-tional tempo of a normal battalion in a garrisonenvironment.”

Election Day SupportVisible OverheadMoore proudly cited the ability of his soldiers tostep up when challenged.

“Before and during the voting, our battalionsurged every single aircraft; every single pilotwas in the air on the 29th and 30th of January,when the elections occurred, the gunfighterswere securing the skies over the polling sites,”he said. “That gave all the gunfighters a tremen-dous sense of accomplishment and put ourmission into historical perspective.”

Moore added, “Our unit is well aware of the air-craft it flies and the future of the aviation community.

“We embrace the transformation of

the Apache to the Apache Longbow.

“It will require all of us who have experienceand comfort in one airframe to upgrade andtransition to another.”

CW4 Ted Tomczyk flew his Apache until 11 p.m.on the night of the Iraqi elections.


CW4 Ted Tomczyk: “We helped ensure they had theright to vote for a free Iraqi government.”

08 09

CONTINUED PAGE 11Ô

“I got shot up pretty good the first time there,”he said “The second time I got shot at, neverhit. But one thing I think, after OIF I and takingthe amount of damage I did, it didn’t affect mymission at all. I was really confident.

“The insurgents were rarely in front of us; theynever would stand toe to toe with us.”

CPT John Broam, a pilot with 1-1 AVN, said theunit was well prepared for its missions becauseof months of training before they weredeployed.

“We had been training for a couple of monthsbefore we were deployed in early February2004,” he recalled. “Once we felt we were readyand the aircraft were ready, we made our crossof the Kuwaiti border on the 29th of Februaryand proceeded to Tikrit, Iraq, where we spent

the next year conducting our operation.”

CW2 Russell Motes and CW2 ChristopherTamburello both logged hundreds of hours inApaches during the 1-1 AVN deployment.

Both agreed that while enemy fire could“degrade our capabilities; we both felt that theApache would bring us back.”

“I have supreme confidence in my aircraft andthe troops we worked with,” Tamburello added.

Ground-based TeamsLaud SupportLTC David Scott Hubner, battalion commander,1st Battalion, 77th Armor Regiment (1-77Armor) called Apache support “absolutelyinstrumental in our success in Iraq.”

Hubner’s troops were on the ground anddepended on Apaches as they performed theirunit’s missions.

“The Apaches gave us the capability day andnight to eliminate the enemy from where hewanted to be, to deny him the ability to gowhere he wanted to go and do the things hewanted to do,” he said.

“From the commander’s perspective the

Apaches were integrated directly

down to the platoon level for all operations

in Iraq, in our sector.

“In fact, the police chief for the city that I wasprotecting during the elections came to me dur-ing the election day and said, ‘We need moreApaches.’”

CPT Henry Delacruz, company commander,Bravo Company, 1-77 Armor, recalled that,“Soldiers always felt a little bit safer thatApaches were around…the same for the citi-zens of Balaad. I know that a lot of the Balaadgovernment officials always asked for aviation,and they asked for the Apaches because theyknew that that would deter any of the insurgents.”

Regarding his Apache counterparts, Delacruznoted, “We worked together as a team and weloved them.”

U.S. ARMYMISSION 002CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

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010 011

CONTINUED PAGE 13Ô

Baton Rouge – the operation applied for suc-cessful elections in the city of Samara – was theTask Force Danger Division’s focus, its priorityand its main effort. Second Brigade CombatTeam was the Division’s main effort with thefocus on Samara.

COL Randy Dragon, brigade commander, 2ndBrigade, 1st Infantry Division, saw great value inhaving Apaches support his troops.

“I think that as you take a look at how theApaches played into the overall fight down andhow the support relationship worked, it wasreally a hand-in-glove relationship. The com-bined arms effort between the attack aviationand the ground maneuver units was the criticalpart. The integration of the assets day and nightprovided soldiers the confidence that theywould have a responsive, direct fire platformthat they could talk to.

“Many times we’d find that the enemy woulddisappear or hide or go to ground once theysaw or heard the Apaches inbound,” he added.

“And the threat understood the

capabilities of the Apache both day and

night and they respected that

capability.”SPC Andrew Myers, a member of 3-5 Platoon,Headquarters Company, 1-1 AVN, viewed 1-1AVN’s tour of duty from a refueler’s perspective.

“We were in charge of refueling and supplyingthe ammunition for the battalion,” he said. “Wesupplied fuel for various battalions in the area,different types of aircraft, including fixed-wingaircraft. We ran dual operations to two differentbases in Iraq, supplying many, many aircraft

with fuel and ammunition for missions thatcame up.”

He noted that to enable 1-1 AVN to fly morethan 14,000 hours of flight time “we, as a team,supplied them with over 1.5 million gallons offuel and also 95 short tons of ammunition.”

SPC Kurt Bailey, an armament technician with1-1 AVN, recalled that the battalion “actuallyhad a few aircraft come back damaged.”

“The worst one that comes to mind had severalbullet holes in it, one right up front of the air-craft by the TADS assembly,” he said. “Thereare a lot of wires up there and the bullets wentthrough the wires. Some hydraulic damage tothe lines, sheet metal damage and I think wehad it back out in two-to-three days. It was veryessential to get the aircraft back up, back flying.”.Hal Klopper, Boeing Site Communications Manager

in Mesa, Ariz., traveled to Germany with Boeing

photographer Bob Ferguson to capture the

1-1 AVN story.


COL Randy Dragon shares big-picture valueof Apache helicopters.

ON FEELING GOOD ABOUT YOUR JOB

CW4(P) David Lumley, an Apache pilot who flew combat missions during both Operation Desert Storm andduring OIF II, had this to say about the importance of Apache support in combat:

“I have a quick story about a specialist in our company that we were working with down in Balaad. He was feelingdown one day and I told him how important his job is because he was one of the only maintenance mechanics thatwe had working on our ground vehicles.

“He was having one of those days. So I spoke to him about how important it was for him as one individual to makesure that our vehicles were working so we could all go to chow and drive around. He started feeling good about him-self after we talked for a little bit… each one of our guys is so important, especially when you do split-based opera-tions and you’re in a smaller entity of a unit.

“Each man is so important for every job that he does because we sometimes separate ourselves from a larger groupor a larger battalion. When that happens, and we go off and do smaller operations, it’s very important for each one ofus to get together and build a cohesive team.

“Everybody has a specific job and everybody is important,” Lumley said with a nod..


1-1 AVN Apaches logged more than 14,000 flighthours in Iraq.

012 013

Army Apaches in the Global War

on Terrorism

Aviation and maintenance crews have been deployed to Afghanistan andIraq – in a number of cases more than once since late 2001.

U.S. ARMY

MISSION 003

While maintaining mission capable rates in excess of 85 percent and flying thousands ofhours and turning phases at an incredible pace, Apache battalions continue to conduct a fullspectrum of combat and peacekeeping missions. The success achieved is made possible bythe professionalism and dedication of the soldiers in theater and the commitment of the support personnel representing government and industry that are farther from the fight butnevertheless critical to the overall accomplishments achieved. Notably, this is a total Armyeffort – one Army, active and reserve components fighting together on the battlefield for acommon cause..

0010011AT THE TIP OF THE SPEAR.00100110110010011110101000111010100101001101001001110010010111010100111100100100111101010001110101001010011010010011100100101110101001111001000100111101010001110101001010011

Apache Units Deployed to Afghanistan:

- 3rd Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment "Eagle Attack"

- 1st Battalion, 229th Aviation Regiment "Tigersharks" – re-flagged as 3rd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment

- 3rd Battalion, 229th Aviation Regiment "Flying Tigers" – re-flagged as 1st Battalion, 82nd Aviation Regiment

- 1st Battalion, 130th Aviation Regiment, North Carolina National Guard

- 1st Battalion, 111th Aviation Regiment, Florida National Guard

- 1st Battalion, 211th Aviation Regiment, Utah National Guard

- 2nd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment “Fighting Sixth”

* denotes multiple deployments

Apache Units Deployed to Iraq:

2nd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment “Fighting Sixth-Real CAV”

1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment “First Attack” *

1st Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment “We Strike from Above” *

1st Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment “Expect No Mercy” *

6th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment “Six-Shooters”

2nd Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment “Eagle Warrior” *

3rd Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment “Eagle Attack” *

4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment “Renegade Troop” *

1st Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment “Dragons” *

1st Battalion, 501st Aviation Regiment “Flying Dragons”

1st Battalion, 1st Aviation Regiment “Gunfighters”

1st Battalion, 151st Aviation Regiment, South Carolina National Guard

8th Battalion, 229th Aviation Regiment, Kentucky Army Reserve

3rd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment “Tigersharks”

4th Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment “Gamblers”

“The nation, the Army and Army Aviation are very proud and grateful to all our great Aviation heroes. These patri-ots selflessly serve to uphold the principles of duty, honor, country, and remain ‘Above the Best.’”– BG E.J. Sinclair, Commander of the U.S. Army Aviation Warfighting Center & Chief of the Aviation Branch

014 015

Boeing Field Support Personnel Tackle Logistics Challenges

to Provide Service to the Army Customer

Boeing field service personnel know that the only stupid question is the oneyou don’t ask. Apache Contract Field Service Representatives (CFSRs) andContract Logistics Service (CLS) personnel get lots of questions during thecourse of a work day.

U.S. ARMY

MISSION 004

And more importantly to the soldiers they work with – the CFSRs and CLS personnel areready with answers. Though they are based in Mesa, Ariz., at The Boeing Company facility,most field personnel only get to Arizona for brief visits, meetings and training updates. Thejob keeps them where they’re needed most – on a flight line, in a hanger, at an Army base ordeployed with a battalion to Afghanistan and Iraq. The U.S. Army contracts with Boeing forthe skills and professional expertise that CFSRs and CLS personnel bring to the front line.The Boeing men and women working with the troops are committed to getting the job doneright so that aircraft are up and flying, protecting the soldiers on the ground and taking thefight to the enemy. Field service personnel know that this is no typical 9 to 5 job – long days,challenges and difficult or dangerous conditions are just some of what they sign up for. At theend of the day, these field representatives know that they’ve accomplished their missions –that maintainers have more knowledge and confidence; that parts are available; that aviatorsare in the air doing what they’ve trained so hard to do; and that Apaches are getting to thefight, achieving success, and bringing the soldiers home..

0010011ON THE FRONT LINE.0010011011101100010011110101000111010100101001101001001110010010111010100111100100100111101010001110101001010011010010011100100101110101001111001000100111101010001110101001010011

QUOTES FROM THE FRONT LINE.

“You have to take care of the helicopter and it will take care of you.” – Brad Hudson, Boeing CFSR, 1-1 AVN

“There’s nothing that can beat the Apache – it’s a deterrent factor. The enemy can shoot at Apache all day long, and you cantalk to any pilots, and they’ll tell you, ‘Yeah, shoot me all you want – I know Apache is still going to get me back home.’”– Wayne Herron, Boeing CFSR, 6-6 CAV

“Apache is an amazing aircraft. The people that maintain it, that fly it, that support it are amazing. What this aircraft willtake and then come back for more proves that it’s amazing. I have so much respect for the Apache Longbow and the peo-ple that are a part of it.” – Jennifer Ryan, Boeing Contract Logistics Support, 6-6 CAV

“The soldiers’ dedication and resolve are incredible. Working with them is a privilege and an honor. Together we spentmonths out in different locations in Iraq enduring combat situations with the enemy lobbing mortars and rockets at us andthese young soldiers – kids about the age of my own kids – just never stopped. It’s amazing what they could do undertremendous pressure. They kept those Apaches flying.” – John Warren, Boeing CFSR, 1-227 AVN

“There are no operations, no heroics without maintenance. It flat doesn’t happen. Our group of mechanics coupled with oursupport from Boeing – Johnny Warren and Bill Ryan are priceless – what a great logistical team. When the unit needed apart, it showed up from somewhere in-theater or it was coming over on the ‘Pillsbury Express.’ People outside our unitwere committed to our success.” – LTC Ron Lewis, Commander, 1-227 AVN

Good question. Boeing CFSRAndrew Callaway helps resolve anApache maintenance issue.

016 017

U.S. Army Ready to Give Its Apache Longbows an

Important Facelift

The signing of a non-recurring developmental contract inJune 2005 by the U.S. Army and Boeing officially kicked offthe Apache Longbow Block III Modernization Program.

FUTURE

MISSION 001

And while preliminary work has been ongoing for a number of years, the signing of theBlock III contract signaled the start of the third round of on-going improvements for theApache Longbow, the U.S. Army’s premier attack helicopter.

The Block III program will remanufacture 284 of the Army’s Block I aircraft. Ultimately, theArmy’s plans call for the incorporation of Block III technologies into all of their ApacheLongbow fleet.

Production is scheduled to begin in 2010. The BlockIII production phase will include six delivery lots withLots 1 and 2 covering low rate initial production. Theremaining lots will cover full rate production.

0010011BUILDING BLOCKS ROUND III.001001101001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110

The Block III Apache Longbowwill be a full fledged memberof the U.S. Army’s FutureForce.

BLOCK III APACHE LONGBOW VITAL GROWTH AREAS:

• Interoperability (net ready)

• Performance

• Mission Reliability

• Survivability

• Force Protection

018 019

CONTINUED PAGE 21Ô

Block III Apache Longbows enable network-centric operations, joint interoperability, and networked lethality. Block III technologies also make the Apache easier and less expensive to maintain with two-level maintenance and improved diag-nostics and prognostics. Planned technology insertions will make the Apache more than twice as lethal and seven timesmore survivable on the battlefield than a Block II AH-64D Apache. Battlefield commanders, Army aviators and soldierswith boots on the ground will benefit from the expanded capabilities of the Block III Apache Longbow..Data and information reported by Scott Rudy, Boeing Apache Block III program manager in Mesa, Ariz.


020 021

Increased Situational Awareness and Survivability

• Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Connectivity- Level IV Control- Aviation Manned Unmanned System Technology (AMUST)

• Cognitive Decision Aiding System (CDAS)- With integration of proven software technologies, CDAS

provides situationally relevant information to the pilot/co-pilot for rapid fact-based tactical decisions

• Aircraft Survivability Equipment (ASE)- Common Mission Warning System (CMWS)- Improved Countermeasures Dispenser (ICMD)

Improved Target Detection and Acquisition

• Fire Control Radar (FCR) Enhancements

• Radar Frequency Interferometer (RFI) Enhancements

• Flexible Digital Communications- Improved Data Modem (IDM), Satellite Communications

(SATCOM)

Enhanced Performance / Operations and SupportCost Reduction

• Drive System Upgrade- Increases power density and reliability while reducing

acquisition costs

• T700-701D Common Engine

• Open Systems Architecture (OSA) Upgrade- Digital Communication Multi-Band / Multi-Mode- Satellite Communications (SATCOM)- Blue Force Tracking (BFT)

• Main Rotor Upgrade With Composite Blades- Improved mean time between removals, reduces

acquisition costs and operations and support costs

BLOCK III TECHNOLOGIES OVERVIEW

022 023

CONTINUED PAGE 24Ô

Improved Maintenance / Training

• Improved maintainability, reliability, and safety and reduced operations and support costs through advanced diagnostics and prognostics

• Logistics Information Management Support System (LIMSS) Improvements

• Advanced Interactive Electronic Technical Manual (IETM)

• Multi-mode Laser

• Condition-Based Management (CBM)

“Army Aviation’s highest priority is to support our soldiers in combat today, while ensuring they havemodern equipment, effective organizational structures, and the best training possible.”– BG Jeffrey Schloesser, former Director, Army Aviation Task Force

BLOCK III TECHNOLOGIES OVERVIEW

024 025


Making a Great Helicopter

Even Better

FUTURE

MISSION 002

With every combat experience – from Vietnam to OperationIraqi Freedom – comes an opportunity to study the way battle-field equipment performed and make improvements that willbenefit soldiers in the future.

That’s what’s happening to the Apache helicopter, which hasperformed well in recent deployments, but still can beimproved as new technologies and capabilities are madeavailable.

Several needs have been clearly identified – and Boeing andthe U.S. Army are working together to meet the future needsof soldiers deployed to combat zones.

0010011THE FUTURE APACHE LONGBOW.0010011001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110

New technologies will continue to give ApacheLongbows the edge.

APACHE KEY TECHNOLOGY OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE:

• Improved situational awareness

• Improved survivability

• Improved endurance, speed and payload

• Improved transportability

• Reduced operations and support costs

026 027

CONTINUED PAGE 28Ô

Improved Situational AwarenessWhile the Apache is very effective at neutralizing enemy forces once their location is determined, theApache needs the ability to fully understand the battlefield environment: where are the bad guys,where are the good guys and where are the air and ground weapons that could be applied in realtime?

Assembling this Common Operating Picture (COP) will require effectively handling very large amountsof digital information provided in different digital formats. Apache Block III technology insertions willprovide the processing power and the broadband communications suite needed to transmit andreceive the COP information.

What will be needed next is technology that will allow the flight crew to understand and effectivelyact on the enormous amount of information that will be available. The goal of Apache AdvancedCrew Station technology upgrade is to provide the Apache crew with the ability to fully utilize theCOP data and function effectively in the Network-Centric Operation (NCO) environment. The specifictechnologies already in the early stages of development include: advanced heads up and/or headsdown displays, advanced Cognitive Decision Aiding System (CDAS) software, voice command andcontrol software, advanced Distributed Aperture Sensor (DAS) systems and Automatic TargetRecognition (ATR) software. These technologies when integrated into an Advanced Crew Stationconfiguration will provide the Apache crew with the ability to fully understand their environmental sit-uation and apply precision fire support quickly when needed.

Full authority fly-by-wire flight control technology will further reduce the workload and enhance theeffectiveness of the Apache crews by automating many of the routine tasks associated with just fly-ing the aircraft and allowing them to concentrate on the war fight.

One final component of the upgraded crew station is an upgraded conformal crew seat design thatnot only meets the ballistic protection requirements but also provides a more comfortable environ-ment for longer duration missions expected to be required in the future.

Improved SurvivabilityThe Apache has proven to be the most survivable aircraft ever built in a close combat environmentand has repeatedly returned crews safely to base after taking numerous hits by ground fire weaponsand even rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs). However, the U.S. Army has continued to lose aircraftto RPGs and collisions with obstacles such as wire strikes all too frequently and crews remain vul-nerable to ground fire that penetrates the cockpit area.

DAS technology, discussed earlier, will improve situational awareness for the Apache but it also willprovide a means of detecting and countering attacks from RPG and high-caliber ground fireweapons. Other technologies being developed will provide the Apache with a means to detect andavoid obstacles such as power lines plus provide a ground proximity warning capability that will pre-vent inadvertent collision with the ground. Finally, advanced crew station and airframe armor technol-ogy is being developed that will provide more protection from damage due to ground fire especiallyin the crew station area.

The improved survivability suite under development, when fully integrated with the Infrared signaturereduction and Common Missile Warning System survivability improvements included in the Block IIIupgrade, will substantially reduce the vulnerability of the Apache in the close combat environmentallowing more aircraft to stay in the fight longer and bring home more ground troops.

Improved Endurance, Speed and Payload Lessons learned during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom have shown thatthe Apache needs to have an ability to fly farther, faster and carry more payload than is possibletoday. Thus, technologies are being developed to both reduce the weight of the basic aircraft andincrease the power available to the aircraft while simultaneously reducing the specific fuel consumption (SFC).

Fly-by-wire flight controls, upgrade of the aft fuselage structure to incorporate lightweight, compositematerials, and avionics systems miniaturization all have the potential to reduce basic aircraft weight.

Upgrades to the main and tail rotor drive systems coupled with an advanced technology enginebased on the Army’s Improved Turbine Engine Program (ITEP) have the potential to substantiallyincrease the power available. Weight reduction combined with increased power available will signifi-cantly improve the Apache’s flight performance. The ITEP engine will also reduce the engine fuelconsumption providing the potential for a significant improvement in operational range or endurancefor future Apaches.

Improved Transportability, Reduced O&S CostsBased on lessons learned, there is a need to improve transportability and reduce operations andsupport (O&S) cost for future Apaches. Technology insertions are in work that will reduce the timerequired to prepare, load, unload and get Apaches ready for flight quickly. These technologiesinclude a composite folding horizontal stabilizer, a composite folding vertical stabilizer and automaticrotor track and balance software.

Other technologies in development have the potential to significantly reduce the logistics footprint forthe Apache when deployed. These include fly-by-wire flight controls incorporating electromechanicalactuators which would eliminate the need for hydraulic test and support equipment, an upgraded tailrotor drive system with at least double the mean time between removal of current components, andupgraded main rotor rotating controls with significantly increased service lives.

With these technology insertions, the Apache of the future will meet the joint multi-role attack/reconrotorcraft needs of the U.S. Army’s Future Combat Systems centered Modular Army. Net ready,lethal, survivable, transportable and affordable, the Apache will continue its well earned reputation asworld’s most capable attack rotorcraft..This report was contributed by Larry Plaster, manager of Apache Modernization Programs at

The Boeing Company in Mesa, Ariz.

FUTUREMISSION 002


028 029

Analysis, Modeling and Simulation:

An Eye Towards

Today’s uncertain security environment, characterized by theGlobal War on Terror, threatens the freedom of the United Statesand its allies. This uncertainly will continue into the foreseeablefuture. The United States and Allied Forces must not only fight thecurrent war on terror, they must also prepare for a future majorconfrontation.

FUTURE

MISSION 003

This environment dictates combat systems, like the AH-64D Apache Longbow,be versatile enough to be employed in future military operations, from peace-keeping missions to full scale combat operations.

With its wide range of technologies and demonstrated capa-bilities, Apache will operate in global and regional conflicts insupport of operations ranging from peacetime engagementsto high intensity, conventional or nuclear warfare. Threats willrange from small arms to surface-to-air missiles; anti-airartillery; fixed wing – including unmanned aerial vehicles –and rotary wing aircraft and associated air-to-air weapons;directed energy weapons, including both lasers and radio fre-quency weapons; integrated air defense systems; nuclear,biological, and chemical weapons; and information warfare.

In the next decade, high-energy laser weapons and radar fre-quency weapons, to include high power microwave weaponsand munitions, which can degrade or destroy the electronicsystems in aircraft, will have reached maturity. Low-energylaser systems will have proliferated practically every militaryforce. Rotor wing aircraft will also be subjected to attacks by

tube artillery, multiple rocket launchers and short-range ballistic missiles. State-of-the-art technologies evaluated in the context of the future operational envi-ronment will make the Apache more survivable – and one of the most effectiveweapon systems in the future battle space.

0010011THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE.0010011011001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110

Analysis, modeling and simulation enables designand development of tech-nologies for the futureApache.

030 031

CONTINUED PAGE 33Ô

SIMULATION CAPABILITIES• Advanced combat simulation encompassing constructive combat simulation

• Virtual full mission simulation

• Rapid prototyping mission simulation

• Support simulation-based acquisition

• Advanced rotorcraft design verification/validation

• Artificial intelligence (cognitive decision-aiding) development

SIMULATION FACILITIES• Apache Engineering Development Simulator (EDS)

• Network-Enabled eXchange for Unifying Simulations

(NEXUS) facility

• Evolving Virtual Environment (EVE)

• Rapid Prototyping Mission Simulator (RPMS)

PROJECT EXAMPLES• AH-64D Apache Longbow Modernization

• Future Combat Systems (FCS) Battle Command

• System-of-Systems Common Operating Environment (SoSCOE)

• Joint Unmanned Combat Air Systems (J-UCAS) Mission Ground Station

• Canard Rotor/Wing (CRW)

Explaining the present and exploring the future is how Analysis, Modeling and Simulation

enables the Apache to be the most capable warfighting platform in the world.

Investigating the future operational environment, determining the capabilities that the “Apache-After-Next” or “Beyond Block III Apache” must have to be survivable and effective – and matching thosecapabilities with relevant technologies is the purpose of Analysis, Modeling and Simulation (AMS)and all of the tools it uses. The primary role of AMS at The Boeing Company in Mesa, Ariz., isexplaining the present and exploring the future.

To ensure the Apache helicopter’s design meets the battle commander’s mission requirements of thefuture, AMS processes and products have been integrated into the Apache’s product designprocesses to provide solutions to ensure applications meet operation requirements. Tools and capa-bilities include advanced combat simulation encompassing constructive combat simulation, virtualfull mission simulation and rapid prototyping mission simulation.

The Apache Engineering Development Simulator (EDS)located in Mesa supports Apache research and engineering development, full mission simulation andcrew training. It has two full-scale cockpits, one for the pilot and one for the co-pilot/gunner, mount-ed in stationary 20-foot domes with a wrap-around visual system to project “out-the-window”images for each crew member. The Apache EDS uses Apache flight software, hardware and pilotvehicle interfaces in the cockpits to test and validate technologies and techniques under simulatedcombat conditions.

The Network-Enabled eXchange for Unifying Simulations (NEXUS)facility brings together the best simulation technologies across Boeing and the Department ofDefense to support customer needs. The NEXUS facility uses Wide Area Networks for connectingdistributed simulations, including the Boeing LabNet Defense Research Engineering Network. It alsohouses a number of individual laboratory compartments that include the Apache EngineeringDevelopment Simulator, the Command and Control Laboratory, the Rapid Prototyping MissionSimulator, a Simulation Hot Bench and Advanced Full-Mission Simulators.

The Evolving Virtual Environment (EVE)is the simulation "world" in which other simulators, like the EDS, and players interact. It contains thevirtual terrain database and provides an arena in which physics-based models of sensors, weaponsand effects create the dynamic simulation environment. The EVE can interact with other distributedsimulation environments through Distributed Interactive Simulation or High-Level Architecture connectivity.

The Rapid Prototyping Mission Simulator (RPMS)is a portable, freestanding cockpit of an advanced concept reconnaissance/attack rotorcraft. Builtduring the Rotorcraft Pilot’s Associate program, this simulator facilitates rapid feedback from pilotsabout changes to the simulated aircraft, saving time and money compared to full-scale testing.

Analysis, Modeling and Simulation is keeping an eye to the future to ensure advanced technologiesin the “Apache-After-Next” meet the operational demands of the future battlespace..This overview is provided by Dale Macpherson, manager of Rotorcraft Operations Analysis at The Boeing

Company in Mesa, Ariz.

FUTUREMISSION 003


032 033

Annual Certification by Army Demonstrates Apache’s Growing

Network-Centric Capabilities

“A network-centric force has a dramatically improved situationalawareness and quality of information, which, in turn, leads todramatic improvements in military effectiveness across theboard.” When U.S. Army Secretary Francis Harvey spoke thosewords at his official welcoming, he was talking about a primegoal of Army transformation.

FUTURE

MISSION 004

While Harvey said that fully Network-CentricOperations (NCO) operations were a “long-term”goal, Boeing’s AH-64D Apache Longbow isalready giving warfighters networked capabilitiesin the field today. And, about once-a-year, Apacheagain proves its interoperability and demonstratesthe latest advancements in its NCO functions dur-ing testing at Fort Hood, Texas.

Among the technologies that have been certified isthe ability to have joint communications with AirForce platforms using the Air Force ApplicationDevelopment Program (AFADP) protocol for mes-sage transmission/reception. “AFADP is a combatproven force multiplier that provides today’s AH-64D aircrews with situational awareness,increased mission effectiveness, and increased lethality,” explained Paul Hutchinson, teamleader, Apache NCO/Battlefield Management Integrated Product Team at The BoeingCompany.

AFADP allows the Apache to exchange messages with the U.S. Air Forces, E-8C JointSurveillance Target Attack Radar System (J-STARS) aircraft – both getting and sending targetinformation. Some of the Apache’s AFADP messages are compatible with communicationswith variants of A-10 and F-16 aircraft.

Apache has been certified, as well, in its use of the Variable Message Format (VMF) messag-ing system that can be transmitted over the military’s Tactical Internet and other systems.Apache can exchange fire support and situational awareness information and situation andspot reports and more using VMF through various radios. The Tactical Internet also lets

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Apache share information on tracking “blue forces” (friendly forces) using the beyond-line-of-sight BlueForce Tracking radio. Since this radio only requires line-of-sight connection with a satellite, Apache

is assured connectivity in almost any situation. Apache can use these various systems to feedfriendly and enemy force situational awareness information to a database that provides

information to several command and control systems.

The Apache’s annual interoperability evaluations take place at the Fort Hood’sAviation Multi-Mission Technical Integration Facility (AMTIF) and Central

Technical Support Facility (CTSF).

“The intra-Army Interoperability Certification (AIC) at CTSF is notonly a node/weapon-system/platform certification it is a sys-tem-of-systems certification,” said Hutchinson. “The Armyhas to ensure that it is providing its commanders and soldierswith nodes, weapon-systems and platforms that are fully ableto communicate, coordinate, collaborate, and execute theprosecution of the Global War On Terror. The AIC is theprocess that ensures this happens.”

Those who test the Apache say the evaluation ensures the AH-64D is delivering on its networked promises. “Apaches are better

integrated with other Army C4I (command, control, communica-tions, computers and intelligence) systems because of the testing at

AMTIF/CTSF,” said David A. McClung, lead engineer and director ofAMTIF/CTSF. “That ensures networked lethality and a common friendly

and enemy operational picture.”

What difference do these changes make for the soldiers who fly Apaches?“It’s simple, Apache gives better situational awareness, fratricide preven-

tion, it’s a combat multiplier and enables networked operations,” saidHutchinson.

Apache first completed AIC in 2000. The latest Lot 8 Apacheswent through the assessment in 2005. “Networked informa-

tion is the ‘high ground’ of today’s and tomorrow’s battle-field,” said Mike Burke, director of Apache Business

Development at Boeing. “It’s what gives com-manders and their troops the ability to out-plan,

out-maneuver and defeat their enemy. Eachyear, through AIC, Apache shows it is giving

commanders that high ground.”

In the summer of 2005 Boeing and the Armysigned the first production engineering contractfor Block III AH-64D Apache Longbows. Thatpaves the way for continued modernization of the

world’s most capable multi-role combat helicopter,and ensures its formidable networked and interoperabilityprowess will only grow..

Reported by Marc Sklar, Boeing Frontiers magazine Integrated Defense

Systems editor.

Tim Hazzard is with the U.S.Army Aviation Multi-missionTest Integration Facility inFort Hood, Texas.

034 035

Royal Netherlands Air ForceOn Display

INTERNATIONAL

MISSION 001

Visitors at the 2005 Paris Air Show may haveseen something odd in the air during the fly-ing displays early in the show: a helicopterdoing a loop-the-loop in midair, as if it wason an invisible high-thrills roller coastertrack.

It was a sight stopped people in their tracks and causedopen-jawed looks of amazement. But for the experimen-tal test pilots of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, who flythe AH-64D Apache rotorcraft, it’s another day to appre-ciate the capabilities of this attack helicopter, made atthe Boeing facility in Mesa, Ariz.

The pilots and their crew brought the Apache Longbowto Paris then returned home a few days later for per-formances at the RNLAF’s Open Days event, which fea-tured flying demonstrations. Maj. Wandert Brandsen, aRNLAF experimental test pilot, relishes the chance toundertake flying displays. Doing loops and rolls, ham-merhead stalls and split-S maneuvers might seem har-rowing, not only for the pilot but also for the helicopter.“It’s challenging to fly display tactics, but it’s not difficultbecause the aircraft is so good,” he said.

0010011AEROBATIC APACHES AMAZE.00100110001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110

RNLAF Apaches demonstratemaneuverability during per-formances throughoutEurope.

036 037

CONTINUED PAGE 39Ô

INTERNATIONALMISSION 001

The team was honored as the “best in show” at the Royal International Air Tattoo held in The UnitedKingdom in 2005. The RNLAF, which has been flying the Apache since 1995, transitioned to theupgraded D model in 1999 and now operates 29 of the helicopters. When they’re not flying at dis-plays, Brandsen and his team are responsible for making sure the aircraft operates safely, especiallyif any modifications are made.

But the RNLAF’s deployments in the last few years for the International Security and Assistance Force(ISAF) in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom have shown crew members the aircraft’s true worth.

As with any high-tech piece of equipment, especially one used in combat, there’s a learning curve onthe Apache. But flying the rotorcraft is not that difficult, crew members said: The challenge comesfrom being in combat. “Then it’s a relief” to be flying the Apache, said Capt. Raymond Laporte. “Theflying part is easier because you have the time” to comprehend what’s happening all around.

Being in Afghanistan meant dealing with challenging altitudes and austere weather conditions. Butthe RNLAF crew said the Apache held up swimmingly. Laporte said that even at Kabul’s altitude of5,800 feet above sea level, the aircraft was able to fly fully loaded without sustaining any powerissues. In fact, he said he was able to take the helicopter up to an altitude of 20,000 feet, well abovethe recommended ceiling of about 10,000 feet). Even at those types of altitudes, the Apache doesn’tuse more fuel, said Master Sgt. Dennis Jorntsma.

Maj. Wandert BrandsenBoeing caught up with Maj.Wandert Brandsen, who leadsthe RNLAF’s Apache Solo DisplayTeam, during the 2005 OpenDays event in The Netherlands.Here’s just a little he had to sayabout flying the Apache:

“The first time I was flying with experimentaltest pilots from Boeing I knew a little bit aboutwhat to expect but I thought the aircraft washarder to put through the maneuvers. Then,when we were doing our first loops and rolls, Iwas surprised how easy it all went. And in thelast years I’ve flown with other guys that areunit commanders or operations officers, puttingthem though the same maneuvers. With all theconfidence I have in the aircraft, it’s easy for meto say, ‘Wow, this is great!’

“This is my fourth and last season as the pilot incommand. My front seater Raymond Laportewill take over for me in 2006, so I will transitionhim to the back seat, and I will train a newfront-seater. It’s an ongoing process thatensures we’re ready to demonstrate the Apacheevery time we lift off at a show.

Maj. Wandert Brandsen knew he wanted tobe a pilot since he was a young boy. “It’sbeen a great ride.”

“I recall that in 1994, we were going to buy newhelicopters. Even then for me, the only helicop-ter was the AH-64 Apache. We had to fill in apiece of paper and list our three top choices forhelicopter duty. At the time, we had theChinook, the Cougar, the Apache andAB412…my first priority was the Apache, mysecond one was the Apache and my third onewas the Apache. It’s been a great ride.”.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37C

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AMAZING PERFORMANCE – An AH-64D Apache from the Royal Netherlands Air Force launches flares whilecompleting a 360-degree roll during the 2005 Open Days air show in The Netherlands. Demonstrations bythe only active service Apache aerobatics team in the world are scheduled to continue.

038 039

CONTINUED PAGE 41Ô

“During my training I flew several other helicop-ters of course, I flew the Huey, the Jet Ranger,the more light aircraft. It’s even more maneuver-able than the lighter ones… it’s just so amazing.I love it.

“Flying with Wandert is a lot of fun. He’s aninspiring guy and of course he has a lot ofexperience in the experimental test pilot field.I’d like to go that way some day, so I like flyingwith him and I learned a lot from him.

“When I went upside down, it was like ‘OK’ andthen we were right back to level again. It wentso fast, but it was cool. And the second time Ienjoyed it even more and I still love it. It’s anawesome thing to do in a helicopter.”.

Capt. Raymond LaporteBoeing also met with Capt.Raymond Laporte, the next chiefpilot for the RNLAF’s ApacheSolo Display Team, during the2005 Open Days event in TheNetherlands. Here’s just a littlehe had to say about flying theApache:

“The Amase (pronounced “amaze”) System,which provides our Apaches with protectionagainst incoming ground-launched missiles, isstill pretty brand new on the aircraft. We haveonly had it installed for about a year. It’s beenused during our deployments to Afghanistanand Iraq; that’s where it was developed for. Wewanted to show the system to the public andThe Netherlands as well that we have this sys-tem, so we’ve included it in the demonstrationtwice. We pop out 16 flares in total. It providesa nice blooming effect that is pretty spectacular.

“When we fly the flares, especially when we doit at the demo when we use more than theoperational load, it makes a loud ‘bang, bang’in the cockpit, so when you see the flashes inthe corner of your eye, it’s pretty spectacular –even from the from the inside.

“I think the Apache is an awesome machine.


Capt. Raymond Laporte, is the new chiefpilot for the Apache Solo Display Team. Hecalls Apache “an awesome machine.”

What’s more, maintenance in these environments hasn’t been an issue. Warrant Officer Rob Peterssaid that despite the heat and sand of the areas of deployment, the Apache hasn’t needed extramaintenance.

In addition, the crew praised the Apache’s ability to be ready for rapid mobilization. Laporte recalledone incident when he got a scramble order; 11 minutes later, they were airborne. Without theApache, it would have taken 30 to 45 minutes to mobilize.

They also gave what could be the ultimate praise: The aircraft is survivable. The crew recalledinstances of Apaches sustaining damage but being able to remain airborne. And even in instances ofa rotorcraft being brought down, “guys will get out alive,” Laporte said. “It creates trust among pilotsthat they can fly their missions.”

After appearing at Open Days, the crew ventured to the United Kingdom’s Royal International AirTattoo, the world’s largest military air show. “We get to show the Apache’s capabilities, and we’reproud to do it,” Brandsen said. “We’re thankful for the people in Mesa for supporting us.”.Written by Juno Kim, Boeing World Headquarters Communications Specialist, while on assignment to the

Paris Air Show 2005.


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PRECISION OPERATIONS – Aerobatic performances by the AH-64D Apache at airshows continue to drawapplause from audiences. RNLAF Apaches have been deployed several times, including recent assignmentsin Iraq and Afghanistan.

001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110100100111001001011101010011110010001001111010100011101010010100110

Royal Netherlands Air Force Adds Stability to War Torn

Iraq and Afghanistan

INTERNATIONAL

MISSION 002

Sending Royal Netherlands AirForce (RNLAF) AH-64D Apaches toIraq and Afghanistan to supportinternational peacekeeping opera-tions was a good decision – andclearly demonstrated by solid per-formances by well-trained crewsfrom The Netherlands.

That was the message conveyed recentlyby Col. Ron Hagemeijer, commander ofGilze Rijen Air Force Base, home of theRNLAF’s Apache helicopters.

“By using our Apaches, we contributed stability to the region,” said Hagemeijer, anApache pilot and former unit commander. “The Apache was intimidating… it helpedus to do our job without firing a single shot during the year our helicopters were inIraq and Afghanistan. “We have only 29 Apaches.” he said. “One Apache was lostin August 2004 during the International Security and Assistance Force (ISAF) mis-sion in Afghanistan. But we were still able to have two deployments of six aircrafteach. It makes me proud that we pulled it off.” Hagemeijer credited a team of pro-fessionals who did their jobs well for their tours of duty that spanned one year inboth countries.

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Col. Ron Hagemeijer creditssuccesses in Iraq andAfghanistan to a team of professionals.

The intimidating presence of RNLAFApaches detoured aggressive actions byopposition forces in Afghanistan and Iraq.

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In a year of support, RNLAF AH-64D Apaches flew more than 4,200 hours, including 2,400 hours inAfghanistan and 1,800 hours in Iraq. In all, more than 230 RNLAF soldiers flew or supported theApaches in both Iraq and Afghanistan during the deployments. The RNLAF sent its Apaches indetachments of six aircraft each, rotating its soldiers in and out of both countries. Apaches werebased in Tallil in Iraq and in Kabul in Afghanistan.


Pilots, Hagemeijer noted, felt safer becausethey flew with the Amase (pronounced “amaze”)System, which dispenses flares and chaff tocounter enemy missiles and rockets shot at thehelicopter. The Amase System contains sensorsand flares in special wing-mounted pods thatreact automatically to incoming missile threatsby firing flares and chaff as appropriate to pro-tect the aircraft.

“Our deployments were an enormous suc-cess,” he said. “We intimidated the enemy justby our presence. We learned a lot and right nowwe’re tweaking our organization and our tech-niques and procedures and making them evenbetter.”

Afghanistan: Hot or Cold,One TeamIn Afghanistan, RNLAF Apaches were assignedto the International Security and AssistanceForce (ISAF), operating in support of convoysand providing a general aerial presence thatstopped the opposition from any aggressiveactions.

“It was a good feeling for me to help the troopson the ground,” said 1st Lt. Boris van der Vijgh,who served in Afghanistan twice – once in theextreme cold of winter and once in the swelter-ing hot summer.

“The Apache performedwell at all times, even

during the bad winter weather, it performed

even better than I had expected.”

One pilot, a first lieutenant, flew in bothAfghanistan and Iraq. He agreed that theApache’s presence alone was enough to quell

ground fire. “They know that we have to betaken seriously,” he said. “We made a lot ofnoise to be sure they knew we were there…thatwas enough…” He flew with the Amase systemin Iraq.

“Because it’s automatic, we didn’t have toworry about popping switches,” he said. “Whena missile is coming at you, you don’t want toworry whether you have time to react.” Headded, “I believe the Dutch people appreciatewhat we do. We’ve shown in both Iraq andAfghanistan that we can help bring stability toan area, that we can help keep the peace.”Another first lieutenant, said the Apache’s tech-nology edge helped during his tours toAfghanistan – both in the hot summer and coldwinter. “We can spot the bad people on theground and identify them using on-board sen-sors. That makes it easier for ground soldiers totake the appropriate action.”

He said he greatly appreciated the support fromhis maintenance teams who kept the Apachesready for duty. “I think those guys are great andvery motivated. There were not a lot of prob-lems…We were a team.” He added that theDutch forces in Afghanistan felt that flying forISAF was a good cause, a chance to build ademocracy. “I’m happy and proud to be able toserve on that team, working for peace.”

Sgt. Johannes van Dijk, an avionics mechanic,served in Afghanistan twice. “I hadn’t imaginedthe Apache flying as much as it did or expectedthe challenge of high altitude flying, but if youlook at the conditions the Apache flew in,including the sand and heavy rain, the Apachedid very well.”

Iraq Proves a Success for RNLAFAnother first lieutenant, recalled his threemonths in Iraq where he helped keep peace.“In January 2004, we supported the Iraqi elec-


tions, providing an aerial presence much like the U.S. Army Apaches that protected polling placesthroughout the country. “Most of the time, we waved at the people and they were happy to see usand I think they felt safer,” he said. “I felt like I was contributing to democracy in Iraq.”

He added that insurgent forces had “real respect for the Apache” and like others, he knew thatground troops felt safer when he was in the air above. “It was a good feeling knowing that the peopleliked having us over there.”

Sgt. Maj. Eric von Don spent five months supporting Apaches in Iraq. “Our eight maintainers helpedkeep the Apaches ready to fly, often more than 200 hours a month,” he said. “It was a great teamwith good experience and knowledge about the aircraft. They knew how to solve problems.”

He added, “They learned a lot in Iraq,” he said. “We had a young team with good training… every-thing worked out great, even when working around the clock. I think the pilots were pleased as well.”

Whether flying alone or in formation, Apaches from the Royal Netherlands Air Force relied on team-work in the air and on the ground to make missions – ranging from close support to protecting convoys – successful in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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Lt. Col. Jan Willem Westerbeek, commander of301 Squadron, served as a detachment com-mander in Iraq for four months.

“We were able to maintain four operation air-craft (six aircraft were available including one foroperational reserve and one for logisticalreserve),” he said. “The Apache performed real-ly well. They were effective for ground forcesand gave them a lot of confidence – they gaveall the troops a lot of confidence to do whatthey needed to do.”

Westerbeek added, “My pilots really enjoyedthe role they played and gained confidence asthey flew, especially when we added the Amasesystem.”

He noted that situational awareness was a criti-cal part of their missions, noting that knowingwho was where gave them great advantages,especially at night.

“When we were in Iraq, we were working 24hours a day to maintain the peace. That wasthe wish of our ground forces, of our politiciansand the people of The Netherlands. It’s muchquieter in the southern areas of Iraq, I believe,where we were able to serve.”

Westerbeek recounted a reality-shattering expe-rience after a Dutch soldier was killed. “It’simportant to remember that it’s still dangerousin Iraq,” he said. “You have to be sharp everyday.”

Why believe in the Apache as a weapons plat-form? “It doesn’t let me down,” he said. “I cando my job day or night and wherever I need tobe. I can’t imagine myself flying anything otherthan our Apache.”.Hal Klopper, Boeing Site Communications Manager

in Mesa, Ariz., traveled to The Netherlands, talking

with the RNLAF crews about their experiences with

the Apache in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Sgt. Harry Andrioli, an avionics specialist whoserved in Iraq, recalled working in extreme heat.“It was hot, often above 114 degreesFahrenheit, but you get used to it,” he said.“Maintaining an Apache is interesting, especiallyin Iraq. It’s harder than in Holland. But it’s thereal world where something breaks and you fix

it. I’m satisfied with the Apache and I’m satis-fied when I’ve done a good job.”

Andrioli said that he didn’t always like his stayin Iraq. “When you are away from home forthree-and-a-half months and it’s hot and thereare no luxuries, you want to go home all thetime,” he said. “But we made do and got thejob done.”

Sgt. 1st Class Wolter Haan summed up thefeelings of his maintenance teammates heserved with in Iraq.

“The Apache is a great helicopter and it per-formed quite well in Iraq,” he said. “The missionin Iraq was successful because we delivered –everything from close support of convoys andDutch ground troops to searching out oppositionforces from the air. It was a good feeling for thepeople at home to know that we were able toprotect our own as well as the people of Iraq.”

Commanding the RNLAF squadron duringthe four month deployment to Iraq, Lt. Col.Jan Willem Westerbeek affirmed thatApache’s situational awareness was criticalto their success.



Lt. Col. Jan Willem Westerbeek: It’s still dangerousin Iraq; you have to be sharp everyday.

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Peacekeepers – Royal Netherlands Air Force AH-64D Apaches served for a year in both Iraq andAfghanistan in support of peacekeeping operations. RNLAF pilots reported feeling in command regardless ifthe weather was hot or cold.

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U.S. Army and Boeing Sign First Block III Non-Recurring Engineering ContractThe U.S. Army paved the way for continued modernizationof the world’s most capable multi-role combat helicopter bysigning the first production engineering contract withBoeing for Block III AH-64D Apache Longbows. Theresearch, development, test and evaluation contract, signedin a virtual ceremony June 28, 2005, in Washington, D.C.,Huntsville, Ala., and Mesa, Ariz., provides FY05 funding ofnon-recurring engineering costs for Block III enhancementsfor Apache Longbow attack helicopters. The total value forBoeing of the developmental contract is $27.2 million.Additional contracts, for further engineering and productionwork, are anticipated as the program matures. “The BlockIII technologies have been selected in answer to require-ments specified by the U.S. Army’s Apache OperationalRequirement Document,” said Al Winn, Boeing vice presi-dent of Apache programs. “Army and Boeing leadership lis-tened to battlefield commanders and aviators to make cer-tain that the Block III technologies enhance crew effective-ness.” Production of Block III Apaches will begin in 2010following completion of current Apache production workthat has been on-going in Mesa, Ariz., since the Apacheprogram began..

Boeing Delivers 400th U.S. Army AH-64D ApacheLongbow The Boeing Company and the U.S. Army marked a signifi-cant Apache program milestone in December 2004 withthe delivery of the U.S. Army's 400th AH-64D ApacheLongbow helicopter. U.S. Army Apache project managerCOL Ralph Pallotta officially accepted the aircraft fromBoeing Vice President of Apache Programs Al Winn at theBoeing site in Mesa, Ariz. I'm proud to accept this 400thApache Longbow on behalf of the Army aviators and com-manders who continue to report the helicopter's opera-tional successes during current deployments in Iraq andaround the world," said Pallotta. The AH-64D ApacheLongbow helicopters were first delivered to the U.S. Armyin 1997. The U.S. Army is nearing the completion of thesecond multi-year contract for a total of 501 AH-64D modelaircraft Boeing is working with the U.S. Army to finalize theschedule for the remanufacture of additional AH-64A modelaircraft from current inventory. Plans are being discussedto define the technologies available today for integrationinto the Apache Longbow Block III aircraft, the next blockupgrade of Apache development..

Eleventh, Twelfth, Thirteenth U.S. Army AH-64DApache Longbow Units Certified Combat ReadyThe U.S. Army's eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth AH-64DApache Longbow attack helicopter units have been certi-fied combat-ready after completing extensive training inBoeing Apache helicopters at Fort Hood,Texas. RenegadeTroop from the 4th Squadron, 3rd Armored CavalryRegiment, Fort Carson, Colo., was certified combat ready inlate 2004. A troop-size unit flies eight Apache Longbowhelicopters as compared to full battalions, which operatefrom 18-24 Apache Longbows. The twelfth unit, 1stBattalion, 6th Cavalry Brigade, which had been based atCamp Eagle, South Korea, as an AH-64A Apache unit, com-pleted eight months of training with modernized AH-64DApache Longbow helicopters built at the The BoeingCompany facility in Mesa, Ariz. The 1-6 CAV will be basedat Fort Hood. The thirteenth unit, the 3rd Battalion, 101stAviation Regiment, which returned to its base at FortCampbell, Ky., received its certification in May 2005. Toqualify as combat ready, the men and women completed aseries of comprehensive classroom, flight and field exercis-es. Soldiers underwent a rigorous field examination, whichincluded three live-fire exercises flying about 3,200 hoursduring the training program. All pilots from the battalionreceived initial training at Fort Rucker, Ala., while the main-tainers received training at Fort Eustis, Va..

Boeing Signs CCAD Partnership AgreementBoeing and the U.S. Army Materiel Command have signed aCorpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) Partnership contract.This agreement gives Boeing the responsibility of manag-ing the repair parts supply chain for Apaches and Chinooksat CCAD as well as providing technical support to the depotin becoming a more lean and efficient operation. Securingthis contract required the close cooperation of Boeing’sLogistics Support Systems (LSS) and the functional teamsat both the Mesa and Philadelphia Rotorcraft operations,and this achievement can be attributed to working togethersuccessfully. Talking with Mark Bass, Boeing LSS ArmySupport vice president, and COL Tim Sassenrath,Commander, CCAD following the signing ceremony inJanuary 2005, MG James Pillsbury commented on thepartnership agreement, saying, “...when an Apache fliesover a convoy, it saves lives. As a Chinook moves supplies,or troops or artillery pieces around Afghanistan or Iraq, itsaves lives. Our soldiers need the best. Boeing and CorpusChristi together are going to provide the best and they’regoing to do it faster. This partnership is worth its weight ingold.”.

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Boeing Delivers First Apache Repaired Under ResetProgram and Receives Follow-on WorkBoeing delivered on-time and on-budget the first U.S. AH-64A Apache combat helicopter refurbished under the ResetSupport program in September 2004. Working with the U.S.Army customer, Boeing developed the program to speedthe time it takes to return heavily used Apache and ApacheLongbow helicopters to active service, while ensuring thework is cost effective. The first delivered aircraft, which hadsustained damage and wear after operating in the harshenvironments of Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo, was deliv-ered two days ahead of schedule. After repairing 15 air-craft, both AH-64A Apaches and next-generation AH-64DApache Longbows, under the Reset program,in July 2005the U.S. Army awarded Boeing a $41.5 million contract forthe refurbishment of 70 AH-64 Apache helicopters. ApacheReset work is performed at the Boeing Logistics SupportSystems Williams Gateway site in Mesa, Ariz. The aircraft,which are used extensively in desert and other harsh envi-ronmental conditions, are rapidly restored to pre-deploy-ment condition. With a program goal to return aircraft to

service in 60 days, Boeing cleans and repairs all compo-nents, provides material management and parts for criticalshortage items, conducts repairs for battle and crash dam-age, and completes post-maintenance aircraft testing..

COL Derek Paquette Takes the Helm as ApacheProject ManagerCOL Derek J. Paquette has been named the new U.S. ArmyApache Project Manager. He replaces COL Ralph Pallotta,who retired in September 2005 after four years at the helmof the program. During his tenure, nine Apache battalionstransitioned from AH-64A to AH-64D Apache Longbows,certifying as combat ready. Pallotta leaves a legacy of man-aging the program during Operation Enduring Freedom inAfghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq. His suc-cessor COL Paquette most recently served as the MilitaryDeputy for U.S. Army Communications and ElectronicsResearch, Development and Engineering Center in NewJersey. He also served as Product Manager for ApacheModernization with the Apache Attack Helicopter programoffice, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama from 2000-2003. Hisother materiel development assignments include AssistantProduct Manager for the Target Acquisition DesignationSight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor in the Apache ProgramOffice in St Louis. Paquette’s operational assignmentsinclude section and platoon commander with 1st Squadron(Air), 17th Cavalry, 82nd Airborne Division, Ft. Bragg, NorthCarolina; Assistant Operations Officer and Troop

New Apache Transmission Technology Offers MorePower and Capability An innovative transmission technology developed for rotor-craft applications including the Boeing AH-64D ApacheLongbow helicopter has successfully completed 60 hoursof operational testing. The new design creates more powerwithout increasing the size of the transmission and can beapplied to a variety of helicopter drive systems and usedfor future Army helicopter upgrades and for new helicop-ters. The new rotorcraft transmission uses smaller, lighter-weight "face" gears that split the torque – or power – sentto the drive shaft. Traditional helicopter transmissions use asingle pathway to power the aircraft's rotor system..

Boeing Awarded Contract for 13 U.S. Army AH-64DApache Longbow Helicopters In September 2005, the Department of Defense awardedThe Boeing Company a contract for 13 new AH-64DApache Longbow multi-role combat helicopters for the U.S.Army. The new Apache Longbow aircraft, to be built in thecurrent Block II configuration, are in addition to AH-64AApaches being remanufactured under a multi-year contractwith the U.S. Army. U.S. Army Apache helicopters aredeployed around the globe, including Southwest Asia, for awide range of military assignments..

Commander with 5th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment inGermany and Saudi Arabia; Aviation Plans Officer, 5thCorps, Frankfurt, Germany; and Brigade Operations Officer,2nd Infantry Division, Camp Stanley, Korea. A senior Armyaviator, Paquette is instructor pilot qualified in both the AH-1 Cobra and AH-64A Apache and also rated in the AH-64DApache Longbow..

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Boeing Delivers First AH-64D Apache Longbow forKuwait The government of Kuwait accepted its first AH-64DApache Longbow multi-role combat helicopter from TheBoeing Company in July 2005. The Apache Longbow deliv-ered is part of a 16-aircraft foreign military sales order withthe U.S. Department of Defense for the Kuwaiti govern-ment. The aircraft will remain in the United States until2006 to undergo a series of qualification tests. No firm in-country delivery schedule or contract details have beenannounced. Kuwait's ministry of defense initially signed aletter of offer and acceptance with the Department ofDefense in 2002 to make Kuwait seventh internationaldefense force to select the AH-64D and the eleventhApache customer worldwide..

Boeing in Mesa and St. Charles Win the Shingo Prize Boeing in Mesa, Ariz., and Boeing in St. Charles, Mo., havebeen awarded the 2005 Shingo Prize for Excellence inManufacturing. This is the first time that Boeing won whatBusiness Week termed the "Nobel Prize of manufacturing."The announcement came in February 2005 after a team ofShingo examiners visited the sites to look at every areaand support function, with a focus on Lean manufacturingprinciples and demonstrated business results. The competi-tion for the Shingo includes other North American compa-nies and researchers throughout the world. Sponsored byUtah State University, the prize was established in 1988 topromote awareness of Lean manufacturing concepts andrecognize companies that achieve world-class manufactur-ing status. In conjunction with the Shingo Prize, the Boeingin Mesa Human Resources (HR) department captured the2005 Shingo HR Medallion Award. The prize is for demon-strating the best HR practices in support of a lean manu-facturing strategy. Boeing in Mesa will be invited to make apresentation at Utah State University's HR Partners-in-Business seminar in Logan, Utah, in March 2006 to shareHR practices that helped move the organization forward inits lean journey..

Mike Tkach Appointed as Boeing Army RotorcraftSystems Vice PresidentAppointed as the Army Rotorcraft Systems vice president,Mike Tkach has overall responsibility for all Army Systemsrotorcraft programs and supporting functional activities inPhiladelphia and Mesa, Ariz. Prior to joining the ArmySystems organization Tkach served as the vice presidentand V-22 program director, vice president of F/A-18 HornetInternational Programs, and was vice president forInternational Business Development. Since joining Boeingin 1979, Mike also has served as experimental test pilot;F/A-18 representative to the company’s Washington, D.C.,office; director of Navy Programs in Business Development;and general manager of F/A-18 International Business andNew Product Development..

Israel Accepts First AH-64D Apache LongbowsThe Israeli government accepted its first AH-64D ApacheLongbow helicopters during a ceremony in Israel in April2005. Israeli government and military leaders, as well asrepresentatives from the U.S. Army, Boeing and the interna-tional Apache team attended the ceremony. The Israel AirForce, which has operated Boeing AH-64A Apaches sincethe early 1990s, is modernizing its fleet through a combi-nation of AH-64A upgrades and new-build ApacheLongbow combat helicopters. The Israel Air Force designa-tion for the aircraft is the AH-64D-I Apache. While the air-craft were purchased through a U.S. Army foreign militarysales agreement, some of the modifications to are beingcompleted through a direct commercial sale agreementsigned in 2000. The process enables Boeing to make sev-eral changes directly with the Israel Air Force. The exactnumbers and configurations of the Apache Longbow air-craft that will be delivered over the next several yearsunder the contract have not been released. The aircraftwere flown from Mesa, Ariz., where they are produced byBoeing, to Israel aboard a transport aircraft..Boeing and Fuji Heavy Industries SuccessfullyComplete Flight Tests of Japan Apache LongbowTest pilots representing Boeing and Fuji Heavy Industrieshave completed a series of flight tests of Japan’s first AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopter. Moving the Japan ApacheProgram through a critical phase of planned testing, pilotsfired multiple Raytheon air-to-air Stinger missiles success-fully striking targets at the Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz.,range. This event, called the Japan AH-64D StingerIntegration Test, included software regression, hardwareintegration and systems testing. The tests demonstratedthe superior adaptability of the Apache Longbow helicopter.“Working cooperatively with our production partner, FujiHeavy Industries (FHI), contributed to this successfulaccomplishment,” said Boeing Japan Apache ProgramManager Pat Carson. “With each testing increment, theBoeing/FHI Team is making steady progress toward the in-country delivery of the first AH-64D helicopter to Japan.”FHI will deliver the first AH-64D to the Japan DefenseAgency in 2006..

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Apaches are making a real difference in the GlobalWar on Terror. U.S. Army Apaches in both activeand reserve components are taking the war to ourenemies daily. International customers put theirApaches to the test many times in 2005, perform-ing a wide range of peacekeeping and combatassignments.

But the Apache Program never sits on its laurels.The team continuously strives to understand itscustomer’s requirements, develop new technolo-gies, and improve our product. 2005 was noexception. In fact, the team worked hard over thelast several years to develop the technologies thatwill allow the Apache to be in the Future Force forthe U.S. Army. This next-generation aircraft will beknown as the Block III Apache Longbow.

The U.S. Army committed to the program in 2005,and funded the first developmental contract for Block III. The Block III Apache will incorporate 25 technology insertions that will increase the per-formance of the aircraft, reduce the operatingcosts, and will enable the Apache to be networkedwith Future Combat Systems with an open

systems architecture that will allow for rapid technology insertions.

The U.S. Army is replacing aircraft lost inOperation Enduring Freedom and Operation IraqiFreedom with 13 new AH-64Ds. The contract wassigned on Sept. 23, 2005. The U.S. government isalso remanufacturing an additional 96 aircraftbetween October 2007 and May 2010, which willallow for international customers to upgrade theirAH-64As to the D model configuration on a warmproduction line and achieve favorable pricingoptions.

There are many reasons for our pride in whatwe’ve accomplished but it’s much more than that.It’s about the aircraft. Knowing it will get betterover time and provide the capabilities to dominatefuture battlefields. It’s about allowing aircrews tocomplete their missions and return home safely.

It’s about families. The Apache Team puts the sol-dier first and as we make the Apache better, thatwill always remain our number one focus.

We’re excited about the future of the Apachearound the globe. And watching the next-genera-tion version of this amazing aircraft fly is a dreamclose to reality.

We remain focused on our customers. Nobody cansay it better than the brave men and women oper-ating and maintaining the Apache in combat today.Here’s a quote from LTC Ron Lewis, Commander,1-227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division:

“Our job is saving lives. When we fly, soldiers don’tdie. We took a lot of fire (in Iraq). We gave morethan we received. And this aircraft brought usback. I was confident, I was blessed, because Iwas in two niner eight (the aircraft tail number onLTC Lewis’ Apache Longbow).”.

Al Winn, Boeing Vice President of Apache Programs, leads the team of Boeingteammates in Arizona and around the worldwith the simple credo “Promises made,promises kept.”

WHAT A YEAR IT’S BEEN!

APACHE

MISSION 2005

2005 was an amazing year for the Apache Program. Around the world.

Throughout the year, our customers confirmed repeatedly that they are pleased withthe Apache. That’s great news, especially since supporting the warfighter in combatas well as in peacetime, is something we cherish dearly.

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Apache News 2006

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