The newest version of the AH-64E Apache has successfully flown with an upgraded capabilities suite as Boeing [NYSE: BA] continues to modernize the platform. The upgraded E-model Apache, known as Version 6.5, or V6.5, is the next configuration of the world’s premier attack helicopter. “We saw our hard work come to life with this first flight,” said Christina Upah, vice president of Attack Helicopter Programs and senior Boeing Mesa site executive. “These enhancements will take the E-model Apache to the next level in terms of capabilities, ensuring Apaches continue to dominate future battlefields.” 

• V6.5, awarded by the U.S. Department of Defense in December 2021, includes software updates enhancing capabilities and improving the pilot interface. Some of those enhancements include: 
• Optimised route and attack planning 
• Enhanced Link 16 features 
• Integration of an Open Systems Interface, setting the stage for Modular Open Systems Approach for maximum interoperability, faster integration and advanced capabilities fielding.
  
  “We’re very excited about the ongoing development of the V6.5 software as it paves the way for Apache modernisation,” Col. John (Jay) Maher, U.S. Army Apache project manager, said. “V6.5 aligns the entire E model fleet under the same software, streamlining training and maintenance while providing a pathway for sensor/capability parity, and enables the Army to address mandates and critical technologies. Ensuring relevance into the future is a top priority.” Building onto V6.5, the company is working with the U.S. Army to integrate the Improved Turbine Engine (ITE). The engine, a General Electric Aerospace T901, will offer improvements in reach, available power, time on station and fuel efficiency, as well as sustainment improvements like health and usage monitoring, maintenance and engine lifespan.

iteration of the AH-64E Apache, a formidable combat helicopter, recently undertook a successful flight, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts by Boeing to modernise this renowned platform. This upgraded version, officially designated as Version 6.5 (V6.5), represents the next evolutionary step for the world’s premier attack helicopter.

“Seeing the fruition of our tireless labor in this maiden flight was truly gratifying,” remarked Christina Upah, who serves as the Vice President of Attack Helicopter Programs and holds the esteemed position of Senior Boeing Mesa Site Executive. “These enhancements are poised to propel the E-model Apache to new heights in terms of its capabilities, assuring that Apaches will maintain their dominance on future battlefields.”

The U.S. Department of Defense awarded the V6.5 designation to this project in December 2021, which encompasses a range of software updates that enhance the helicopter’s capabilities and streamline pilot interaction. Among the noteworthy improvements are optimised route and attack planning, enhanced Link 16 features, and the integration of an Open Systems Interface, setting the stage for the Modular Open Systems Approach. This approach fosters maximal interoperability, faster integration, and advanced capabilities for field operations.

Excitement abounds within the aviation community about the ongoing development of the V6.5 software, as it serves as a cornerstone for the broader modernisation of the Apache fleet. Colonel John (Jay) Maher, the U.S. Army Apache project manager, enthusiastically affirmed the significance of V6.5: “This update standardises the entire E-model fleet under a single software platform, streamlining training and maintenance procedures while offering a clear path toward achieving sensor and capability parity. It empowers the Army to address vital mandates and stay at the forefront of critical technologies. Securing relevance well into the future remains our paramount objective.”

Furthermore, in an ambitious extension of the V6.5 project, Boeing is actively collaborating with the U.S. Army to integrate the Improved Turbine Engine (ITE), a General Electric Aerospace T901 engine. This endeavour promises substantial enhancements in range, available power, time on station, and fuel efficiency, while simultaneously offering improvements in the areas of health and usage monitoring, maintenance, and engine longevity. The prospect of these innovations underscores Boeing’s commitment to maintaining the Apache’s superiority in the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare.