South Korea to receive 36 AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters from United States

On August 19, 2024, the United States Department of State approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to South Korea involving up to 36 AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, equipped with up to seventy-six T700-GE-701D engines, of which seventy-two will be installed and four designated as spares. This military sale, which also includes up to 456 AGM-114R2 (N) Hellfire Missiles and up to 152 AGM-179A Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles (JAGM), is valued at approximately $3.5 billion.

The proposed sale includes up to thirty-six AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters, equipped with up to seventy-six T700-GE-701D engines, of which seventy-two will be installed and four designated as spares. These helicopters are intended to enhance South Korea’s operational capabilities and are complemented by advanced targeting and vision systems. Specifically, the package comprises up to thirty-six AN/ASQ-170 Modernized Target Acquisition and Designation Sights alongside AN/AAR-11 Modernized Pilot Night Vision Sensors (M-TADS/PNVS), facilitating improved target detection and engagement in various operational conditions.

Additional equipment outlined in the sale features up to fourteen AN/APG-78 Fire Control Radars (FCR) equipped with Mast Mounted Assemblies (MMA) and an equal number of AN/APG-78 FCRs with Radar Electronic Units (REU). To augment the helicopters’ threat detection and electronic warfare capabilities, up to fourteen AN/APR-48B Modernized-Radar Frequency Interferometers (MRFI) are included in the package.

The armament component of the proposed sale is substantial, consisting of up to four hundred fifty-six AGM-114R2 (N) Hellfire Missiles and up to one hundred fifty-two AGM-179A Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles (JAGM). These munitions are designed to provide the helicopters with a versatile and effective offensive capability against a range of targets. For training purposes, up to six M36E8 Captive Air Training Missiles (CATM) are also included to support pilot proficiency and readiness.

To enhance survivability and defensive measures, the sale includes up to forty AAR-57 Common Missile Warning Systems (CMWS), with thirty-six units to be installed and four allocated as spares. These systems are intended to provide advanced warning and countermeasure deployment against potential missile threats during operations.

The proposed transaction encompasses a wide array of non-Major Defense Equipment (MDE) items essential for the effective operation and maintenance of the helicopter fleet. Included are AN/AVR-2B laser detecting sets and AN/APX-123A Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) transponders, which are critical for threat detection and secure identification during missions. Communication and data management systems such as IDM-401 improved data modems and ARC-220 High Frequency Communication Systems are part of the package, ensuring reliable and secure information exchange in various operational environments.

Further navigation and sensor equipment specified in the sale includes Enhanced Image Intensifier (EI2) cameras, AN/ARN-149 (V)3 automatic direction finders, ASN-157 Doppler Radar Velocity Sensors, AN/APN-209 radar altimeters, and Airborne Global Positioning System (GPS)/Embedded Global Positioning System/Inertial Navigation Systems (EGI). Additionally, AN/APR-39C(V)1+ Radar Signal Detecting sets are included to provide comprehensive situational awareness and threat detection capabilities.

The armament support equipment comprises M230E-1 30mm automatic guns, M139 AWS 20mm automatic guns, M261 rocket launchers, and M299 missile launchers, along with associated ammunition such as 2.75-inch rockets and 30mm rounds. The package also includes various countermeasure munitions and devices, including MG62 Cartridge Impulse BBU-35/N, A965 cartridges, 25.4mm rounds, M839 decoys, L410 flares, M206 aircraft countermeasures decoy flares, and Cartridge Actuated Devices/Propellant Actuated Devices (CAD/PADs).

To support secure operations and data handling, equipment such as the AN/PYQ-10(C) Simple Key Loader and KIV-77 Mark XIIA IFF Crypto Applique are included. The sale also covers a Common Missile Warning System (CMWS) software update, ensuring that all defensive systems remain current and effective.

The Apache helicopter was developed as a response to the U.S. Army’s need for an advanced attack helicopter, capable of performing in hostile environments. Hughes Helicopters originally developed the prototype, which flew in 1975, and the AH-64A entered service in 1986. The Apache has seen several upgrades and versions, including the AH-64D Longbow, which introduced advanced radar and missile capabilities. Over time, the Apache has been deployed in various military operations globally, making it a crucial asset in several international armed forces.

The AH-64E, initially designated as the AH-64D Block III, is an upgraded version of the Apache platform. This version incorporates more powerful T700-GE-701D engines, improved rotor blades, and enhanced avionics. It also features an open systems architecture, allowing for future technological upgrades and compatibility with other military systems. The AH-64E’s design improvements contribute to better speed, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency, with enhanced sensor and communication systems that improve its operational capabilities.

The AH-64E attack helicopter can reach a maximum speed of 304 km/h and a combat range of 482 kilometers. It is armed with a 30mm M230 chain gun, up to 16 AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, and 76 2.75-inch Hydra rockets, with the capacity to integrate Stinger missiles for air-to-air engagements. The helicopter’s radar and sensor systems, such as the AN/APG-78 Longbow radar and the Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight (M-TADS), enhance its targeting accuracy and survivability in various combat scenarios. The AH-64E has been used in multiple operational theaters, demonstrating its versatility in close combat, reconnaissance, and anti-armor missions.