US Army delivers two AH-64E Apache helicopters to Australia

The first batch of a 29-helicopter order as part of Project Land 4503 Apache Attack Helicopter

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Australia has taken delivery of the first two AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from the US as part of a Foreign Military Sales agreement. The US Army Security Assistance Command (USASAC) facilitated the transfer, which forms part of Australia's Project Land 4503 to acquire a total of 29 Apache helicopters.

Why it matters

This delivery marks a significant milestone in strengthening the military partnership between the US and Australia in the Indo-Pacific region. The advanced Apache helicopters will enhance Australia's defense capabilities and interoperability with US forces.

The details

The first four Apaches entered final assembly at Boeing's facility in Mesa, Arizona last July, with deliveries to Australia beginning in September 2025. The remaining 25 helicopters are scheduled to arrive before the end of 2028. The AH-64E Apache features networked systems and can team with crewed and uncrewed aerial platforms for integrated operations.

  • In July 2025, the first four Apaches entered final assembly at Boeing's facility in Mesa, Arizona.
  • In September 2025, the first two Apaches were delivered to Australia.
  • By the end of 2028, the remaining 27 Apaches are scheduled to be delivered to Australia.

The players

US Army Security Assistance Command (USASAC)

The US Army command that facilitated the transfer of the AH-64E Apache helicopters to Australia as part of a Foreign Military Sales agreement.

Boeing

The aerospace company that manufactured the AH-64E Apache helicopters being delivered to Australia.

Australian Defence Force

The recipient of the 29 AH-64E Apache helicopters as part of Project Land 4503 to acquire a new attack helicopter platform.

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What they’re saying

“The delivery of these aircraft is a monumental success considering it is the first introduction of the capability to Australia.”

— Savannah Bryant, Country programme manager for Australia (army-technology.com)

What’s next

The remaining 27 AH-64E Apache helicopters are scheduled to be delivered to Australia by the end of 2028, completing the full order of 29 aircraft.

The takeaway

This delivery of the first two AH-64E Apaches marks a significant milestone in the military partnership between the US and Australia, enhancing Australia's defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region through the acquisition of this advanced attack helicopter platform.