AH-64 Apache Specs, Variants, Cost and Operators

The Boeing AH-64 Apache is a twin-engine, two-crew US attack helicopter first flown in 1975 and in Army service since 1986, armed with a 30 mm chain gun, Hellfire or JAGM missiles and Hydra 70 rockets. The current AH-64E Guardian is assembled at Boeing’s site in Mesa, Arizona.

Boeing says its Apaches have flown over 5.3 million hours, more than 1.3 million in combat. This explainer covers the specifications, the D Longbow and E Guardian variants, cost and deal values, weapons, operators with as-of dates, Mesa production, and what the Army plans after it cancelled the FARA scout helicopter. For the manufacturer, see the Boeing Defense, Space & Security company profile.

What Is the AH-64 Apache Attack Helicopter?

The YAH-64 prototype first flew on 30 September 1975, and the Army picked it over the Bell YAH-63 in 1976. The first production helicopters entered service in April 1986, according to Wikipedia. Boeing has built it since 1997.

AH-64 Apache Specifications

The figures below are for the AH-64A/D as listed by Wikipedia from Jane’s. Boeing lists the E model at more than 150 knots maximum speed and a 20,000 ft service ceiling.

AH-64D Longbow, AH-64E Guardian and Block III Variants

In its first combat deployment, to Afghanistan in 2014, the E-model unit reported 88 percent readiness, per Wikipedia.

What Weapons Does the Apache Carry? Hellfire, JAGM and Hydra 70

Fixed armament is one M230 30 mm chain gun with 1,200 rounds. Four stub-wing pylons carry mixed loads, and Wikipedia lists three typical configurations.

The Hellfire is designed to defeat tanks out to 6,500 m. The AGM-179 JAGM, built by Lockheed Martin, replaces older missiles with the same dimensions as the Hellfire, a dual-mode semi-active laser and millimetre-wave radar seeker, and a range of about 8 km, per Wikipedia. Hydra 70 rockets are unguided 70 mm; the guided APKWS version was first ordered for the Army in October 2015.

Newer ammunition is covered in our report on the XM1225 APEX round, and Apaches in the Gulf in the strike on six Iranian boats. Lockheed Martin is profiled here.

How Much Does an Apache Cost?

Sale values include weapons, spares, training and support, so they overstate the airframe price.

Poland’s package includes 1,844 Hellfire, 460 JAGM and 7,650 APKWS II guidance sections.

Which Countries Operate the Apache?

Boeing counts 19 operating countries. Smaller fleets are omitted: Greece, Kuwait, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, Egypt, Qatar, the Netherlands and the UAE together add more than 200 helicopters.

The US figure predates the D-model divestiture described below, so the D count is now lower.

Where Is the Apache Built? Boeing Mesa Production

Boeing builds the Apache at Mesa, Arizona, where the first production helicopter rolled out in 1983 under Hughes. Fuselages have come from Korea Aerospace Industries since 2004 and from Tata-Boeing Aerospace near Hyderabad, which delivered its first in June 2018 and its 300th on 10 February 2025. See the KAI profile.

Wikipedia reports a 2024 rate of 82 aircraft a year, a Boeing minimum sustainment rate of 48 and tooling for up to 98. Defense Daily says the line now runs through 2029, extended from 2027 because of supply chain problems, under a second multiyear contract signed in March 2023 worth up to $3.8 billion.

Why Did the Army Cancel FARA and What Happens to the Apache?

On 8 February 2024 the Army cancelled the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft, after spending at least $2 billion and having asked for another $5 billion over five years, according to Defense News. Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George said aerial reconnaissance had “fundamentally changed”, and the service moved toward drones and sensors. Bell and Sikorsky were the two prototype contenders. The Apache stays the armed reconnaissance platform, paired with drones.

Congress added $360 million for Apache remanufacture in the fiscal 2026 spending bill, per Defense Daily. Analysis: the Army is moving to an all-E fleet and the V6.5 upgrade rather than a new aircraft. Boeing’s May 2025 feature describes a live Launched Effects demonstration on the aircraft planned for 2026.

AH-64 Apache FAQ

What is the difference between the AH-64D and AH-64E?

The E Guardian has 1,994 shp T700-GE-701D engines, composite blades and drone control, and flies about 20 mph faster than the D Longbow. Block III was its earlier name.

What weapons does the Apache carry?

An M230 30 mm chain gun, AGM-114 Hellfire or AGM-179 JAGM missiles and Hydra 70 rockets, with 16 Hellfire in the anti-armor load.

How much does an Apache cost?

Sale values include weapons and support. Poland’s 96-helicopter package was valued at $12.0 billion including weapons and support.

How many Apaches has Boeing built?

More than 2,875 across A to E models, according to Boeing in 2025.

Did FARA replace the Apache?

No. The Army cancelled FARA on 8 February 2024 and kept the Apache, paired with drones, for armed reconnaissance.