Boeing has announced that, under a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract worth approximately 4.7 billion dollars awarded by the U.S. Army, it will produce 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters for the Polish Armed Forces. This massive order has been recorded as the largest procurement agreement in the history of the Apache program outside the United States.
With this agreement, which will significantly strengthen Poland’s defense capabilities, the AH-64E Apaches—one of the world’s most advanced attack helicopters—will be deployed to replace the country’s aging Soviet-made helicopters.
Deliveries Begin in 2028, Training Continues at Full Speed
According to the agreement, deliveries of the helicopters to Poland are expected to begin in 2028. The Polish Ministry of National Defence (MND) has already taken an important step to ensure operational readiness during the delivery period. To maintain pilot and technician training, the ministry has already leased eight Apache helicopters from the U.S. Army and put them into use.
Christina Upah, Boeing’s Vice President of Attack Helicopter Programs, emphasized the importance of the agreement, saying: “This significant agreement enables us to begin producing one of the largest and most capable Apache fleets the world has ever seen,” and added: “We are focused on strengthening Poland’s defense capabilities and meeting the high demand for the world’s most advanced attack helicopter.”
Offset Agreement Assigns a Critical Role to Local Industry
Thanks to the offset agreement signed last year between Boeing and the Polish Ministry of National Defence, Poland’s local defense industry will take on a critical role in maintenance and support activities for the new Apache fleet. Within this framework, Boeing will establish training programs and contribute to the development of a composite laboratory aimed at increasing the capabilities of the Polish industry. This cooperation aims to strengthen Poland’s long-term logistical independence.
AH-64E Apache: Proven Power and Modern Technology
The AH-64E model, the most advanced configuration of the Apache—which is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its first flight—offers superior firepower, high survivability, and advanced network-centric warfare capabilities. With its advanced fire control systems and joint operations compatibility, the AH-64E stands out as the most proven attack helicopter in the field.
With this procurement, Poland has become the 19th international user of the Apache. More than 1,300 Apaches continue to operate worldwide, and sustainability and training support for these platforms are provided by Boeing Global Services.
SOURCE: C4Defence/Boeing
