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| South Korea Ready to Upgrade Its Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian Helicopter Capability |
Seoul - The South Korean government has allocated USD 295 million to upgrade the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopter of the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA). The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) said the update comes amid pressure from the country to combat North Korea's growing military threat.
The Defense Projects Promotion Committee has endorsed a basic plan to purchase a US tactical data link and fire control radar system from 2023 to 2027, to enhance the helicopter's combat capability, DAPA said.
The tactical data link is expected to help improve the sharing of information about the operational situation between friendly forces. While the radar system will increase the ability of war to suppress the enemy's mechanical unit troops.
ROKA took delivery of 36 AH-64E helicopters from Boeing in early 2017. The AH-64E was formerly known as the AH-64D Block III. In 2012 the code was changed to AH-64E Guardian. The helicopter underwent enhanced digital connectivity, a Combined Tactical Information Distribution System, a more powerful T700-GE-701D engine, UAV controllability, full IFR capability and an upgraded landing gear system.
New composite rotor blades have also been integrated into this helicopter. The updated Longbow radar has the capacity for naval attack making it also suitable for maritime use.