The Apache Block III is the next evolution of the Army's premier attack helicopter and is the only rotorcraft with the ability to operate at 6,000 feet and 95 degrees at an out-of-ground effect hover with a full mission payload. The new Apaches will be stronger, faster and less constrained in extreme combat conditions.
Besides the increase in top speed, it will turn faster and tighter, making it almost impossible for the enemy to hide. It will have a combat speed of approximately 164 knots, about 20 knots faster than those currently in service. The Block III aircraft brings back the performance of the early model and adds significant capabilities for today's fight. Some of the key upgrades to the Apache Block III include a more powerful engine and drive train, and composite rotor blades that provide more lift and will allow the aircraft to fly over any mountain in austere places like Afghanistan.
"The Block III brings back the power margins that crews had at roughly 3,000 or 4,000 pounds lighter gross weight than the Block II model," said Lt. Col. Dan Bailey, Apache Block III Product Manager. The aircraft had become heavier over the years when the Army added upgrades to the subsystems, making the pilot power margins more limited.
"Now we'll be able to go to all those places where the enemy tends to hide from us," said Bailey.
Besides the increase in top speed, it will turn faster and tighter, making it almost impossible for the enemy to hide. It will have a combat speed of approximately 164 knots, about 20 knots faster than those currently in service. The Block III aircraft brings back the performance of the early model and adds significant capabilities for today's fight. Some of the key upgrades to the Apache Block III include a more powerful engine and drive train, and composite rotor blades that provide more lift and will allow the aircraft to fly over any mountain in austere places like Afghanistan.
"The Block III brings back the power margins that crews had at roughly 3,000 or 4,000 pounds lighter gross weight than the Block II model," said Lt. Col. Dan Bailey, Apache Block III Product Manager. The aircraft had become heavier over the years when the Army added upgrades to the subsystems, making the pilot power margins more limited.
"Now we'll be able to go to all those places where the enemy tends to hide from us," said Bailey.
No comments:
Post a Comment