Aircraft & UAVs

AH-64E Apache attack helicopter

Also known as
  • AH-64E
  • Apache Guardian
  • AH-64E Guardian
  • Apache Echo model
  • Echo model Apache
  • AH-64E Version 6
  • AH-64E V6
  • AH-64E Version 6.5
  • AH-64E V6.5

The AH-64E Apache is Boeing's Echo-model Apache variant, developed from the AH-64D Block III remanufacture program and built around improved engines, sensors, networking, and a two-person attack-helicopter weapons station. Direct source-backed conflict records place AH-64E aircraft with U.S. Army units in Operation Inherent Resolve, the 2001 War in Afghanistan's Operation Freedom's Sentinel phase, and Operation Epic Fury during the 2020 United States-Iran Conflict.

AH-64E Apache attack helicopter, Twin-engine attack helicopter, Aircraft & UAVs
Image source: 31st MEU Conducts FARP Operations

Role in Conflicts

2020 United States-Iran Conflict
Role in conflict
Forward attack-helicopter operations

U.S. Army AH-64E Apaches assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division were documented refueling at forward arming and refueling points in the U.S. Central Command area before or during operations supporting Operation Epic Fury in May 2026.

Profile / Specs

Profile

Origin
United States
Built by
Boeing
Type
Twin-engine attack helicopter
Service note
2010s-present U.S. Army attack-helicopter modernization
Designer
Boeing, developed from the AH-64D Apache Longbow / AH-64D Block III program
Designed
AH-64D Apache Block III rolled out in 2011 and was redesignated AH-64E in 2012
Produced
AH-64E remanufacture and new-build production from the 2010s; Boeing says E-model production extends into the 2030s
Number built
More than 891 AH-64E aircraft delivered as of November 2025; more than 2,875 Apaches produced across A through E models
Developed from
AH-64D Apache Longbow / AH-64D Block III
Developed into
AH-64E Version 6.5 and Boeing Modernized Apache concept

Specifications

Crew
2: pilot and co-pilot/gunner
Armament
M230E1 30 mm automatic gun, 2.75-inch aerial rockets, and Hellfire missiles
Ordnance capacity
Up to 16 Hellfire missiles, 76 2.75-inch rockets, and 1,200 30 mm rounds
Length
48.2 ft (14.7 m)
Height
15.5 ft (4.7 m)
Rotor diameter
48 ft (14.6 m)
Primary mission gross weight
15,075 lb (6,838 kg)
Maximum operating weight
23,000 lb (10,433 kg)
Maximum level flight speed
150+ knots (279+ km/h); Army 2014 fact file lists 164 knots maximum combat mission speed
Combat range
260 nautical miles
Combat endurance
2.6 hours
Service ceiling
20,000 ft (6,096 m)
Rate of climb
More than 2,800 ft per minute
30 mm rate of fire
600-650 rounds per minute
AH-64E Modernization Blocks

The AH-64E line is structured around incremental capability versions rather than a single frozen configuration.

Block III / AH-64E

The Block III program upgraded AH-64D Longbow airframes with improved drive, engine, rotor, sensor, networking, and open-architecture features before the Army redesignated the aircraft AH-64E.

Version 6

Version 6 added Fire Control Radar enhancements, maritime targeting mode, Link 16, image blending, MUMT-X-related capability, and improved sensor/software functions.

Version 6.5

Version 6.5 first flew in October 2023 as a follow-on E-model configuration to update connectivity, lethality, navigation, survivability, and the pilot interface.

Future growth

Boeing describes the Modernized Apache concept and launched-effects integration as future-growth work building on the active AH-64E production and modernization path.

Sources: Upgraded Apache Helicopter OK'd for Production; Newest Version Apache Lands at First Operation Unit; Newest Version of Apache Completes First Flight; Transforming the AH-64 Apache for the Future.

Variants

AH-64E designations cover the Guardian/Echo model and later capability-version configurations rather than separate clean-sheet aircraft.

VariantConfigurationDesignation notes
AH-64E Apache GuardianEcho-model designation and nickname

The Army selected Guardian as the nickname for the AH-64E Apache in January 2013.

Sources: Team Apache Announces Nickname for the Apache Echo Model

AH-64E Version 6Capability Version 6 configuration

Version 6 adds features including Fire Control Radar enhancements, maritime targeting mode, expanded Link 16, image blending, MUMT-X-related capability, and improved sensor/software functions.

Sources: Newest Version Apache Lands at First Operation Unit

AH-64E Version 6.5Follow-on E-model software and capability baseline

The Army reported the AH-64E Version 6.5 first flew at Mesa, Arizona, on October 11, 2023.

Sources: Newest Version of Apache Completes First Flight

Carried Munitions

Army reporting on AH-64E Apache live-fire events describes the helicopter employing missiles, rockets, and 30 mm ammunition across testing and demonstration scenarios.

Carried itemItem typeCarriage evidence
AGM-114 Hellfire missile family, Air-to-surface missile family, MunitionsAGM-114 Hellfire missile familyAir-to-ground missile family

The Army said AH-64E Apache crews employed RF and semi-active laser Hellfire missiles during a live counter-UAS demonstration.

Sources: Apache Helicopter Proves Advanced Counter-UAS Capabilities in Live Demonstration

Hydra-70 rocket system, 2.75-inch air-launched rocket family, MunitionsHydra-70 rocket system2.75-inch rocket system

The Army said AH-64E Apache aircrews employed Hydra-70 rockets, including APKWS-guided Hydra-70 variants, in live counter-UAS demonstrations.

Sources: Apache Helicopter Proves Advanced Counter-UAS Capabilities in Live Demonstration

M789 high-explosive dual-purpose round, 30 mm high-explosive dual-purpose cartridge, MunitionsM789 high-explosive dual-purpose round30 mm HEDP round

The Army said AH-64E Apache helicopters employed 30 mm M789 high-explosive dual-purpose rounds during Operation Flyswatter live-fire testing.

Sources: Apache Helicopter Proves Advanced Counter-UAS Capabilities in Live Demonstration

AGM-179A JAGM, Air-to-surface precision-guided missile, MunitionsAGM-179A JAGMAir-to-surface precision-guided missile

The Army reported that AH-64E Apache crews operationally tested AGM-179A JAGM in Florida and fired the missile during evaluation.

Sources: Army Conducts Operational Test of Joint Air to Ground Missile in Florida

Trial-Fired Munitions

MBDA reporting documents AH-64E Apache firing trials for a missile outside the standard U.S. Army Apache armament set.

Launched itemItem typeLaunch evidence
Brimstone, Anti-tank guided missile, MunitionsBrimstoneAnti-armor precision missile

MBDA says it and Boeing completed physical trials and firings of Brimstone on the AH-64E attack helicopter, including releases from hovering, moving, and maneuvering scenarios.

Sources: Brimstone - When Missing Is Not an Option

Sensor And Fire-Control Systems

Army reporting describes the AH-64E as a sensor-networked Apache with Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision System, Fire Control Radar upgrades, Link 16, and manned-unmanned teaming functions.

Compatible itemItem typeCompatibility evidence
Apache Fire Control, Apache electro-optical and radar fire-control suite, Support EquipmentApache Fire ControlApache sensor and fire-control suite

The Army's AH-64E Version 6 account identifies MTADS/PNVS, GEN3 Day Sensor Assembly, Longbow Fire Control Radar upgrades, and targeting-related software as part of the E-model capability package.

Sources: Newest Version Apache Lands at First Operation Unit

Timeline

AH-64E Apache attack helicopter Key Events

  1. Block III rollout at Mesa

    The first AH-64D Apache Block III was publicly rolled out at Boeing's Mesa, Arizona, Apache production plant.

    Sources: Army Rolls Out New Apache Block III Aircraft

  2. Full-rate production and AH-64E redesignation

    The Army announced the Block III full-rate production decision and confirmed the Apache Block III would be redesignated AH-64E.

    Sources: Upgraded Apache Helicopter OK'd for Production

  3. Guardian nickname selected

    The Apache Project Office selected Guardian as the nickname for the AH-64E Apache Echo model.

    Sources: Team Apache Announces Nickname for the Apache Echo Model

  4. Version 6 reaches first operational unit

    The 1-229th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion became the first operational unit to receive AH-64E Version 6 aircraft.

    Sources: Newest Version Apache Lands at First Operation Unit

  5. Version 6.5 first flight

    The AH-64E Version 6.5 completed its first flight at Mesa, Arizona, with an upgraded capability suite.

    Sources: Newest Version of Apache Completes First Flight

  6. E-model production continues

    Boeing listed more than 891 AH-64E deliveries as of November 2025 and described E-model production as continuing into the 2030s.

    Sources: AH-64 Apache

Media

AH-64E Apache attack helicopter Videos

AH-64E Apache attack helicopter Images

AH-64E Apache attack helicopter, Twin-engine attack helicopter, Aircraft & UAVs - view 1
Source: 31st MEU Conducts FARP Operations
AH-64E Apache attack helicopter, Twin-engine attack helicopter, Aircraft & UAVs - view 2
Source: 31st MEU Conducts FARP Operations
AH-64E Apache attack helicopter, Twin-engine attack helicopter, Aircraft & UAVs - view 3
Source: 31st MEU Conducts FARP Operations
Related Weapon Systems
AH-64 Apache attack helicopter, Twin-engine attack helicopter, Aircraft & UAVsAircraft & UAVsAH-64 Apache attack helicopterTwin-engine attack helicopterThe AH-64 Apache is a U.S. twin-engine attack helicopter family designed by Hughes Helicopters and continued through McDonnell Douglas and Boeing production. Built around a two-person crew, nose-mounted sensors, a 30 mm chain gun, rockets, and guided missiles, it has direct source-backed combat use from Desert Storm and Iraq to Afghanistan, Sinai, Yemen, Gaza, Lebanon, anti-ISIS operations, and recent U.S. operations against Iran.
M230 30 mm chain gun, 30 mm autocannon, Aircraft & UAVsAircraft & UAVsM230 30 mm chain gun30 mm autocannonThe M230 30 mm chain gun is an externally powered 30x113 mm autocannon built around Apache helicopter fire support, later adapted into M230LF and XM914 ground counter-UAS variants. Northrop Grumman describes the aviation M230 as the original medium-caliber Chain Gun and the M230LF as a lightweight ground and sea-platform weapon; direct sources document Apache M230 fielding in Afghanistan, Iraq, Operation Inherent Resolve, Israeli Apache use in the 2023 Israel-Hamas War, and M230LF-based Slinger systems ordered for Ukraine.
F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Carrier-capable multirole strike fighter, Aircraft & UAVsAircraft & UAVsF/A-18E/F Super HornetCarrier-capable multirole strike fighterBoeing's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is a U.S. Navy carrier-capable multirole strike fighter developed from the Hornet family for fleet air defense, escort, interdiction, close air support, aerial refueling, suppression of enemy air defenses, and day/night precision strike. The single-seat F/A-18E and two-seat F/A-18F anchor carrier air wings through Block II and Block III upgrades, with documented U.S. Navy use in Afghanistan drawdown support, Operation Inherent Resolve, the Red Sea crisis, Somalia strikes, and U.S. operations against Iran.
AGM-114 Hellfire missile family, Air-to-surface missile family, MunitionsMunitionsAGM-114 Hellfire missile familyAir-to-surface missile familyThe AGM-114 Hellfire is a U.S. precision missile family developed for helicopter anti-armor missions and later adapted across UAVs, gunships, ships, and special-purpose strike roles. Cataloged combat use spans Desert Storm Apache strikes, Operation Iraqi Freedom aviation engagements, counter-ISIS and counterterrorism drone operations, Israeli helicopter fire in 2023, Ukrainian counter-drone Tempest vehicles assessed with AGM-114L Longbow missiles, and the secretive AGM-114R9X kinetic variant reported in low-collateral targeted strikes.

Sources

AH-64 ApachePublisher: Boeing | Note: Supports AH-64E manufacturer background, published specifications, production outlook, delivery totals, and modernization context. | Accessed: 2026-07-04AH-64E Apache Attack HelicopterPublisher: U.S. Army | Note: Supports AH-64E mission description, crew arrangement, armament, range, endurance, speed, open architecture, and contractor context. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Army Rolls Out New Apache Block III AircraftPublisher: U.S. Army | Note: Supports the 2011 Apache Block III rollout at Boeing Mesa and the remanufacture program's engine, rotor, networking, and open-architecture upgrades. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Upgraded Apache Helicopter OK'd for ProductionPublisher: U.S. Army | Note: Supports the 2012 full-rate production decision, AH-64E redesignation, and Mesa production context. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Team Apache Announces Nickname for the Apache Echo ModelPublisher: U.S. Army | Note: Supports the AH-64E Guardian nickname and Echo-model alias. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Newest Version Apache Lands at First Operation UnitPublisher: U.S. Army | Note: Supports AH-64E Version 6 first operational-unit delivery and Version 6 sensor, Link 16, maritime radar, MUMT-X, and counter-UAS capability context. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Newest Version of Apache Completes First FlightPublisher: U.S. Army | Note: Supports AH-64E Version 6.5 first flight on October 11, 2023, and the V6.5 software, pilot-interface, Link 16, and open-systems updates. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Transforming the AH-64 Apache for the FuturePublisher: Boeing | Note: Supports Boeing's AH-64E Version 6.5 flight-test, launched-effects, Open Systems Interface, and Modernized Apache concept context. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Brimstone - When Missing Is Not an OptionPublisher: MBDA | Note: Supports AH-64E Apache Brimstone physical trials and firing-trial launch context. | Accessed: 2026-07-0431st MEU Conducts FARP OperationsPublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports 2020 United States-Iran Conflict direct use: AH-64E Apache fielded by the 82nd Airborne Division before conducting operations for Operation Epic Fury; also supports public-domain image provenance. | Accessed: 2026-07-0431st MEU FARP OperationPublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports 2020 United States-Iran Conflict direct use: AH-64E Apache fielded by the 82nd Airborne Division at a forward arming and refueling point before conducting operations in support of Operation Epic Fury; also supports public-domain image provenance. | Accessed: 2026-07-0431st MEU FARP OperationsPublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports 2020 United States-Iran Conflict direct use: AH-64E Apache fielded by the 82nd Airborne Division at a forward arming and refueling point in support of Operation Epic Fury; also supports public-domain image provenance. | Accessed: 2026-07-04U.S. Army Soldiers Conduct Operations in Support of Operation Epic FuryPublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports public-domain gallery image provenance for Apache aircraft armed during Operation Epic Fury. | Accessed: 2026-07-04AH-64E Apache OIRPublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports 2014 War Against the Islamic State direct conflict use under Operation Inherent Resolve: Supports 2014 Operation Inherent Resolve direct use: AH-64E Apache used by Task Force Saber from Erbil for reconnaissance and attack capability in the fight against ISIS. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Task Force Saber Air MissionPublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports 2014 War Against the Islamic State direct conflict use under Operation Inherent Resolve: Supports 2014 Operation Inherent Resolve direct use: U.S. Army AH-64E Apache used by Task Force Saber for air support from Camp Erbil in the anti-ISIS campaign. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Task Force Saber Exploits the InitiativePublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports 2014 War Against the Islamic State direct conflict use under Operation Inherent Resolve: Supports 2014 Operation Inherent Resolve direct use: Task Force Saber AH-64E Apache helicopters providing reconnaissance, surveillance, fires, and offensive strike capability in Iraq and Syria. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Missile MountingPublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports 2001 War in Afghanistan direct use: 16th Combat Aviation Brigade AH-64E Apache crews loading Hellfire missiles for Operation Freedom's Sentinel missions at Jalalabad Airfield. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Chain Gun PreparationPublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports 2001 War in Afghanistan direct use: 16th Combat Aviation Brigade AH-64E Apache crew preparing the M230 chain gun for an Operation Freedom's Sentinel mission at Jalalabad Airfield. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Loading a HellfirePublisher: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service | Note: Supports 2001 War in Afghanistan direct use: Task Force Griffin soldiers loading an AGM-114 Hellfire missile on an AH-64E Apache in Kunduz during Operation Freedom's Sentinel and the Resolute Support Mission. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Apache Helicopter Proves Advanced Counter-UAS Capabilities in Live DemonstrationPublisher: U.S. Army | Note: Supports the AH-64E carry relationship: the Army said AH-64E Apache aircrews employed JAGM, Hellfire missiles, Hydra-70 rockets, APKWS-guided variants, and 30 mm M789 high-explosive dual-purpose rounds in a live counter-UAS demonstration. | Accessed: 2026-07-04Army Conducts Operational Test of Joint Air to Ground Missile in FloridaPublisher: U.S. Army | Note: Supports AH-64E Apache operational testing and firing of AGM-179A JAGM during Army evaluation in Florida. | Accessed: 2026-07-04