U.S. soldiers participate in a training exercise alongside Polish service members at Powidz, Poland, March 15, 2023. U.S. soldiers participate in a training exercise alongside Polish service members at Powidz, Poland, March 15, 2023. (Sgt. Agustín Montañez/Army)
|

Poland gets green light to buy Apache helicopters

WASHINGTON — The State Department has cleared a sale of 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters worth about $12 billion to Poland, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced Aug. 21.

The decision comes after the Polish Ministry of National Defense sent a letter of request to the U.S. government nearly a year ago to buy the Boeing-made helicopters for its armed forces.

The helicopters “will first be deployed to the 18th Mechanized Division. Not all of them, but the first units. This is because the 18th Division will be equipped with the Abrams tanks. These helicopters work great with Abrams tank[s],” deputy prime minister and Polish defence minister Mariusz Błaszczak, said in a statement released by the ministry at the time. “Together, they constitute an enormous force, a force of resistance … we want to use them to deter our opponent.”

Read Complete Article

Jen Judson

Jen Judson is an award-winning journalist covering land warfare for Defense News. She has also worked for Politico and Inside Defense. She holds a Master of Science degree in journalism from Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kenyon College.

My name is Mike and I run HoveringHelicopter.com. I started this website as a passion project about helicopters. I've always been fascinated by helicopters and always dreamed of becoming a helicopter pilot. It never happened but hasn't diminished my interest in helicopters.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    The Oldest Helicopters Still in Service Today

    ByMike Byrd

    Discover the fascinating journey of the oldest helicopters still in service today, a testament to human ingenuity and technological advancement. This detailed exploration delves into the rich history of iconic helicopters like the Sikorsky UH-1 Iroquois (Huey) and Boeing CH-47 Chinook, highlighting their remarkable longevity and enduring roles in both military and civilian sectors. From their early conceptual designs to their modern adaptations, these helicopters have evolved through continuous upgrades in avionics, engines, and structural materials.

    Our comprehensive analysis includes insights from aviation experts, comparative tables of technical specifications, and a look at future prospects and modernization programs. Learn how these helicopters have remained operational for decades, the critical missions they support, and the innovations that keep them relevant. Whether you are an aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or a professional in the field, this article offers a wealth of knowledge and intriguing insights into the resilient world of rotary-wing aircraft. Dive into the enduring legacy of these airborne workhorses and appreciate the technological marvels that keep them flying high.

  • History of the Hughes OH-6 Cayuse Helicopter

    ByMike Byrd

    The inception of the OH-6 Cayuse traces back to the U.S. Army LOH (Light Observation Helicopter) competition in 1963. From its initial identity as the Hughes Model 369, it contended against 12 other designs. The spotlight ultimately centered on three: Hughes’ Model 369, Fairchild-Hillier’s H23 Raven, and Bell’s early OH-58 Kiowa model.

    While Bell’s offering fell short due to its underwhelming power, the Hughes Model 369 – rebranded YOH-6A with a robust 252hp Allison T63-A-5A engine – soared during the trials at Fort Rucker, Alabama in 1963.

  • Kamov Ka-52 Helicopter: The Alligator’s Legacy and Modern Evolution

    ByMike Byrd

    The Kamov Ka-52 helicopter, commonly dubbed the ‘Alligator’, is a true marvel of aviation engineering. Renowned for its unique co-axial rotor design, this aircraft stands out not just for its distinctive silhouette but also for its impressive operational capabilities. Our comprehensive article delves into the Alligator’s journey from its conceptual design to its formidable presence on the modern battlefield. We explore its technological advancements, ensuring it remains at the forefront of aerial combat. The Kamov Ka-52’s operational history is a testament to its resilience, with a history that highlights both its might and adaptability. Additionally, with continuous modernization efforts, this helicopter is poised to meet the demands of future warfare. A significant focus is also laid on its global reach, highlighting its current operators and potential export avenues. The article concludes with a reflective look at the Alligator’s enduring legacy and its promising future in the realm of military aviation. Join us in this deep dive into the world of the Kamov Ka-52 and discover why it is a beacon of innovation and excellence.

  • CH-47 Chinook Helicopter – Making a Great Helicopter Better

    ByMike Byrd

    The CH-47 Chinook Helicopter was an enlarged development of the Vertol Model 107, designated Model 114, which the Army preferred because of its greater capacity.  The prototype was first flown on September 21, 1961, and deliveries to the Army began in 1972 as the CH-47A Chinook.  With large twin rotors powered by relatively new turboshaft engines, plus a cavernous fuselage, the CH-47 offered helicopter airlift capability not previously available. 

  • Sikorsky S-60 Helicopter – The Army’s Ultimate Tactical Transport System

    ByMike Byrd

    The Sikorsky Model S-60 was proposed to meet the Army’s need for a Utility Tacticla Transport Aircraft System (UTTAS) to replace the UH-1 Iroquois.  The prototype was first flown on October 17, 1974, and the Army ordered 2,260 of the type, designated UH-60 Black Hawk, although budgetary constraints confined the order to 1,400, the first entering service in June 1979.  The Black Hawk is considerably larger than the UH-1 and initial aircraft could carry 20 troops compared with 11, plus a substantial underslung load (8,000lbs). 

  • 10 Facts about the Boeing CH-47 Chinook

    ByMike Byrd

    The Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicopter, a cornerstone of global military operations, boasts an impressive history and an array of features that underscore its significance. First flown in 1961, the Chinook has served in countless conflicts, showcasing unparalleled lift capabilities and adaptability. Its tandem rotor design eliminates the need for a tail rotor, optimizing lift and enabling it to carry substantial payloads, including troops, vehicles, and supplies.