Boeing Delivers First Apache Longbow Helicopter for Japan
ST. LOUIS, Dec. 20, 2005 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has
delivered the first AH-64D Apache Longbow multi-role combat
helicopter for the Japanese government to Fuji Heavy Industries
(FHI), the Japanese aerospace company teamed with Boeing to produce
the Apache Longbow in Japan.
The milestone aircraft, delivered Dec. 15 in Mesa, Ariz., and
designated the AH-64DJP Apache Longbow, is the first production
Apache to be delivered with air-to-air Stinger missile launcher
capabilities. Two AH-64DJP Apaches will be delivered to the
Japanese government by FHI in March 2006.
"The Apache will be one of the first weapons platforms with
21st-century joint and interoperable capabilities deployed with the
Japanese Ground Self Defense Force," said Patricia Carson, program
manager of the Japanese Apache program for Boeing. "Delivery of the
new Apache Longbow for Japan ahead of schedule confirms the
dedication and cooperation experienced between the Boeing and FHI
teams in fulfilling Japan Ground Self Defense Force's fielding of
its first two aircraft next year."
Boeing and FHI have been working closely for the last year to
conclude qualification testing of the unique configuration for
Japan that includes incorporation of an air-to-air Stinger
launcher. Following the initial aircraft qualification, FHI will
produce the Apache Longbow aircraft under a licensed production
agreement with Boeing.
The Apache Longbow features fully integrated avionics and weapons
plus a state-of-the-art modem transmitting real-time, secure
digitized battlefield information to air and ground forces. It can
rapidly detect, classify, prioritize and engage stationary or
moving opposition targets at standoff ranges in nearly all weather
environments.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is
one of the world's largest space and defense businesses.
Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a
$30.5 billion business. It provides network-centric system
solutions to its global military, government, and commercial
customers. It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance
and reconnaissance systems; the world's largest military aircraft
manufacturer; the world's largest satellite manufacturer and a
leading provider of space-based communications; the primary systems
integrator for U.S. missile defense; NASA's largest contractor; and
a global leader in sustainment solutions and launch services.
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Contact Info:
Hal Klopper
The Boeing Company
480-891-5519
[email protected]