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Source:
The Boeing Company |
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The
Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) received its first Apache
Longbow Attack Helicopter (AH-64D) at a rollout ceremony on
17 May 2002 at the Boeing plant in Mesa, Arizona, USA.
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Chief of
the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF),
Brigadier-General Lim Kim Choon officiated at the ceremony.
Representatives of the Ministry of Defence, US Army and
Boeing were present.
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The SAF
purchased eight Apache Attack Helicopters in 1999 and a
further 12 in 2001. The acquisition of the Apaches marks a
milestone in the development of the SAF’s helicopter
operations.
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The
Apaches will enhance the SAF's operational capabilities and
advance its efforts to build an integrated and balanced
defence force. The SAF’s Apache programme is managed by
the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA).
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The
combat-proven Apache is designed to fight and survive the
modern high intensity battlefield, and is highly effective
in a wide range of scenarios. The versatile Apache is the
first helicopter developed by Boeing specifically for day,
night and adverse weather combat missions.
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The
Apaches will be based in Marana, Arizona under the Peace
Vanguard programme. RSAF pilots and crew will train with the
Arizona National Guard (AZNG) and enjoy access to training
area including the Gila Bend US Air Force ranges. These
arrangements underscore the excellent defence relationship
between Singapore and the United States.
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Source: Mindef
website news dated 18 May 2002
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Singapore gets first AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopter
