Tue, Nov 26, 2024
Base Receives Four AH-64E Helicopters, Twenty on the Way
Utah Army National Guard base in West Jordan recently took delivery of four brand new AH-64E Apaches. It will eventually gain 20 more of this model, building on to its existing attack helicopter fleet.
“These are the most advanced attack aircraft in the world,” expressed Col. John Dzieciolowski, Commander of the 97th Aviation Troop Command. “With this fielding, Utah will become home to 24 Apache Guardian aircraft and return to a full-size battalion for the United States Army.”
The Utah NG has operated Apache attack helicopters since 1992. The battalion has since been deployed three times. Despite its current fleet, delivery of the new ‘Guardian’ variation is sure to take its capabilities up a notch.
The Guardian model was introduced in 2013. The AH-64E features improvements to digital connectivity through the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System, allowing the flight crew to better work with those from other US military branches. It also utilizes more powerful T700-GE-701D engines to boost speeds by around 20 mph compared to previous versions. Other upgrades include the capability to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), full IFR compatibility, and additional flight safety instruments.
“Today is an exciting day for the Utah National Guard, the state of Utah, and the U.S. Army. These additional aircraft increase our combat power here in Utah by 33%,” continued Col. Dzieciolowski.
Utah now operates every existing model of the Apache attack helicopter, just ten years after almost losing them to a failed Army plan. The next round of four choppers will be delivered next month, with the rest expected by May of 2025. The command can then begin to weed out aging models.
“As far as our stateside mission goes, we will be able to operate a lot easier in the mountains when it comes to looking for lost hikers and other search and rescues,” stated Chief Warrant Officer Joseph Vandrimmelen. “The lighter and bigger blades allow us to work more efficiently at higher elevations.”
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