Greece has taken a significant step toward strengthening its attack helicopter fleet. According to a report by the Kathimerini newspaper, Greece has decided to procure 30 AH-64D Apache Longbow attack helicopters that the U.S. military is set to retire.
U.S. Retiring AH-64D Fleet
According to current plans by the U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon), the entire AH-64D fleet—consisting of approximately 100 helicopters—will be phased out in a process that has been ongoing since 2020. Greece’s procurement decision was made at the level of the Greek General Staff, and it is noted that the official document has not yet been submitted to the Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC) at the U.S. Embassy in Athens. However, it has been noted that preliminary contacts have been established between the parties and that the U.S. has provided Greece with information regarding the approximately 100 Apache helicopters that will soon be withdrawn from service.
According to Kathimerini, a total of 30 helicopters are planned to be delivered to Greece in two installments of 15 each.
Features of the AH-64D Apache Longbow
Developed by the U.S. company Boeing, the AH-64D Apache Longbow is a twin-engine, tandem-cockpit attack helicopter with high maneuverability. It is designed to be extremely effective against armored targets.
Key Features:
Radar System: Thanks to the AN/APG-78 Longbow radar system located on its upper section, it can detect, identify, and track targets regardless of weather conditions.
Speed and Range: Its maximum speed is approximately 293 km/s, and it has a range of up to 480 km.
Weapons System: Its primary weapon isthe 30 mm M230 Chain Gun, mounted beneath the fuselage.
Missile Inventory: To enhance precision strike capabilities, it can carry Hellfire II semi-active laser-guided or Hellfire RF-guided missiles, as well as Hydra-type unguided rockets. Depending on mission requirements, it can also carry various missile systems such as the Stinger, Sidewinder, and Mistral.
Notable for its advanced armor protection, digital flight systems, and day/night operational capabilities, the AH-64D is actively used not only by the U.S. Army but also by many other countries, including the United Kingdom, Israel, Japan, and the Netherlands.
