Wed, Dec 21, 2005
First Apache Equipped With Stinger Missiles
Boeing has delivered the first AH-64D Apache Longbow multi-role
combat helicopter for the Japanese government to Fuji Heavy
Industries (FHI), the Japanese aerospace company teamed with Boeing
to produce the Apache Longbow in Japan. Two AH-64DJP Apaches will
be delivered to the Japanese government by FHI in March 2006.
The milestone first aircraft -- delivered Dec. 15 in Mesa, AZ,
and designated the AH-64DJP Apache Longbow -- is the first
production Apache to be delivered with air-to-air Stinger missile
launcher capabilities.
"The Apache will be one of the first weapons platforms with
21st-century joint and interoperable capabilities deployed with the
Japanese Ground Self Defense Force," said Patricia Carson, program
manager of the Japanese Apache program for Boeing. "Delivery of the
new Apache Longbow for Japan ahead of schedule confirms the
dedication and cooperation experienced between the Boeing and FHI
teams in fulfilling Japan Ground Self Defense Force's fielding of
its first two aircraft next year."
Boeing and FHI have been working closely for the last year to
conclude qualification testing of the unique configuration for
Japan that includes incorporation of an air-to-air Stinger
launcher. Following the initial aircraft qualification, FHI will
produce the Apache Longbow aircraft under a licensed production
agreement with Boeing.
The Apache Longbow features fully integrated avionics and
weapons plus a state-of-the-art modem transmitting real-time,
secure digitized battlefield information to air and ground forces.
It can rapidly detect, classify, prioritize and engage stationary
or moving opposition targets at standoff ranges in nearly all
weather environments.
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