The AH-64 A Apache is far from being the most handsome aircraft in the U S Army's inventory, but its pugnacious appearence is indicative of its mission: to seek out and destroy enemy armored vehicles and strongpoints during the day, night or under adverse weather conditions. The Apache is a real G I helicopter, having the capability to fight, survive, and live with the front line troops on the battlefield.

    The AH-64 A was developed by Hughes helicopters, Inc. to capitolize on attack helicopter experience gained during the

                      Vietnam War.

     It was designed from the ground up to incorporate the most modern survivability features. Indeed, its vital flight systems are able withstand the impact of high explosive and armor piercing anti-aircraft rounds.

    The Apache is a twin engine helicopter with four -bladed main and tail rotors and three point landing gear. It is powered by two 1600 horsepower General Electric 1700 turboshaft engines which give it a speed of nearly 200 miles per hour. The engines are fitted with large infrared-supressing exhaust systems which hinder enemy heat seeking missles.

    The primary weapon of the AH-64A is the laser-guided Hellfire anti tank missle, 16 of which can be carried on four pylons. Suppressive firepower is provided by podded 2.75 inch rockets and a 30mm Hughes Chain Gun automatic cannon. A Martin Marietta Target Acquisition and Designation Sight and Pilot Night Vision Sensor are located in the nose of the helicopter.

    The crew of two sits in tandem in their Armored cockpit with the Co-pilot/Gunner in the front and the pilot above and to the rear. They are provided with helmet-mounted sighting systems which allow them to acquire targets merely by moving their heads.

    Certainly the most advanced helicopter gunship flying today, the Apache is specifically designed to complement armored weapon systems on the battlefield, its lethal firepower, mobility, and high survivability provide the U S Army with the ideal fighting machine to fulfill its mission.