Boeing (formerly McDonnell Douglas) AH-64E Apache Guardian

05 Feb 2026 · © Unknown

The Longbow radar dome above the rotor hub signifies the advanced AH-64E Guardian model, and the military serial Q-80 confirms it as a Dutch airframe.

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Aircraft

AH-64E Apache Guardian AH64

Koninklijke Luchtmacht (Royal Netherlands Air Force) standard camouflage

Q-80

Registration

Airline

Royal Netherlands Air Force (Koninklijke Luchtmacht)

Manufacturer

Boeing (formerly McDonnell Douglas)

Insights

Aviation History

The AH-64 Apache is a legendary attack helicopter used globally, introduced in 1986 and continuously upgraded. The E model is the latest and most advanced evolution.

Fleet Rarity

The AH-64E is still in active service, but only 28 in the Royal Netherlands Air Force fleet, making this a relatively rare NATO version.

Record Flights

The Apache is well-known for long-endurance missions and combat sorties, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and long overwater flights for ferrying; Royal Netherlands Air Force often deploys these for NATO operations.

Safety & Events

Netherlands Apaches have supported ground forces in Afghanistan and Mali; some have been lost to accident and hostile action but generally have performed well, including rescue operations.

Future Outlook

Upgrade programs ongoing; aircraft expected to remain in service through 2040s.

Specifications

2 × General Electric T700-GE-701D turboshaft

Engine

Rotor diameter: 14.63 m

Wingspan

17.73 m

Length

476 km

Range

265 km/h

Speed

2 crew (pilot + gunner), weapons load varies

Capacity

10,433 kg

MTOW

4.64 m

Height

1,994 shp (1,487 kW) each

Thrust

No civil rating; military helicopters typically 120+ dB

Noise

No ICAO/IATA codes for military operators. Noise levels are not standardized for military helicopters. Rotor diameter noted instead of fixed wingspan.