AH-64 Apache

Description

The US Army’s attack helicopter for over 30 years, the Apache is a proven design that has served in every major conflict since Panama in 1989. It’s armed with a 30mm cannon, 70mm rockets, and Hellfire missiles. The latest variant, the AH-64E is equipped with an upgraded Longbow radar capable of directing naval strikes and the capability to control unmanned aerial vehicles.

 PRIMAL Assessment

The Apache, like other comparable gunships, is an excellent close air support platform due to its combination of heavy armor and weaponry. For this reason most US military transport helicopters will have a pair of Apaches escorting when conducting a mission in a high-threat environment. There is no equivalent helicopter in PRIMAL’s arsenal as these gunships are distinctive overt aircraft usually only operated by government forces. PRIMAL’s tilt rotor, the AW609 ‘Dragonfly’ can fulfill a similar role when equipped with retractable weapons, albeit with a much smaller weapons payload and less survivability.