Updated 07 August 2009

Designed for:

The Apache AH1 replaces the Westland Lynx AH7 in the Anti-tank role and is operated by two regiments of the Army Air Corps (3 Regt AAC and 4 Regt AAC) as part of 16 (Air Assault) Brigade. The Apache is the only attack helicopter currently in Service with the British Military. Designed to hunt and destroy tanks this extremely advanced helicopter has significantly improved the Army's operational capability. It can operate in all weathers, day or night, detect, classify and prioritise up to 256 potential targets in a matter of seconds. Offensively is where it is at its most impressive carrying a mix of weapons including rockets, Hellfire missiles and a 30mm chain gun. In addition to the distinctive Longbow Radar located above the rotor blades, this aircraft is equipped with a Day TV system, Thermal Imaging sight and Direct View Optics. Defensively it possesses a state of the art fully integrated Defensive Aid Suite.

The UK's Strategic Defence Review called for Apaches to undertake amphibious attack missions, operating from the helicopter carrier HMS Ocean, the Invincible class aircraft carriers and their successors, the (Royal Navy CVF programme), and possibly the amphibious assault vessels HMS Bulwark and Albion. As such, one of the major differences between the WAH-64 and AH-64 Apache variants is the folding blade mechanism, required to stow the helicopters in the confined space onboard ships.

The Apache will serve aboard Royal Navy ships having achieved maritime certification in December 2005 aboard HMS Ocean. Then on November 17, 2006, HMS Ark Royal became the first RN aircraft carrier to land a WAH-64D Apache AH1 at Portsmouth Naval Base.

There are other differences between them, including

• Rolls-Royce RTM322 engines instead of the General Electric T700s. The Rolls-Royce engines produce nearly 25% more power than their GE counter-parts, although only exploited during take-offs due to the existing Apache transmission system. This engine is currently under evaluation by the U.S. Government, with a view to updating their AH-64s. A new transmission system to utilise all the available power is also in development.
• Anti-ice protection for rotor blades.
• SELEX (formerly BAE Systems Avionics) Helicopter Integrated Defensive Aids System (HIDAS).
• Connectivity with the BOWMAN secure communications system.
• Capability to carry and fire CRV7 rockets.
• A downgraded laser used for training by the Apache for target designation, as it is deemed too powerful for use in the United Kingdom..

Source: Army Air Corps Website
Source: Wikipedia

Planned Versions:

We are going to make 3 versions. I don’t want to get involved in all the issues around making all the numerous derivatives so we are planning to make:

• UK Westland Apache AH1
• Dutch AH-64D
• Generic AH-64D

All three versions are pretty common and can be made very simply and quickly by adding or deleting simple shapes or part of the model.  The model is setup to allow quick and easy 3rd party reskins.  A paint and addon template will be released together with the first version.

RKSL Feature Set:

• TADS and PNVS rotate to “safe” position when engine is off.
• Flight Direction sensors are animated.
• Weapons pylons rotate to firing positions after take off
• Dynamic Rotor System (DRS)
• Improved flight model
• Radar Warning Receiver (FCSS required for full use)
• Integrated Chaff and Flare Counter measures system

Real World Specs

In Service Date: 20 Jan 2001

• Gross Weight: 23,000 lbs
• Engines: 2 x Rolls Royce RTM-322
• Crew: 2
• Dimensions: Length 57.8 ft, Main Rotor Diameter 48 ft, Height 16.1 ft
• Maximum Speed: 160 kts (Vne)
• Cruising Speed: 130 kts
• Range: 260 Nm
• Armament: 16 x Hellfire Missiles
• 76 x 2.75" Rockets
• upto 1200 rounds for 30mm Cannon
• Optics: Day TV - 127 x Magnification
• Thermal Imaging - 36 x Magnification
• Direct View Optics - 18 x Magnification

Credits and acknowledgements:

• Mark (Westlands) for his help sourcing the GA layouts i used for making the model.
• Chris T for his photos i used for detail shots.
• Several members of the AAC for providing me with offical contact info for the AAC at Dishforth.
• Stu R (RAF) for pointing me at some truly fantastic cockpit references.
• Maj Andrew P (US Army) for taking the time to reply to my numerous emails with long and detailed replies.

NOTE: Images shown are WIP textures and do NOT represent the final article.

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