AH-64 Apache Block IIIA Reman

The AH-64 Apache Block IIIA Reman Program is a major Army aviation modernization initiative focused on remanufacturing existing AH-64 Apache helicopters to the latest AH-64E configuration. This program is funded within the Aircraft Procurement, Army appropriation, and is designed to ensure the Army's only heavy attack helicopter remains viable, technologically advanced, and interoperable with joint forces. The overarching goal is to address obsolescence, enhance combat capability, and extend the service life of the Apache fleet. It supports both active and reserve components for a variety of missions, including homeland defense and support to civil authorities.

The primary objective of the remanufacture effort is to completely rebuild legacy AH-64D airframes using new structures and advanced subsystems. This process incorporates a series of incremental capability upgrades, as specified in the approved Capability Production Document (CPD). The remanufactured helicopters are delivered with fully digital avionics, improved survivability, and enhanced lethality, ensuring they meet current and future operational requirements. The program also addresses operational shortfalls identified during real-world combat missions and provides necessary training, initial spares, and ground support equipment.

The program is structured around a block upgrade approach, with each production lot incorporating specific capability enhancements. Capability Version 1 includes improvements such as the Improved Drive and Propulsion System, Composite Main Rotor Blades (CMRB), Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Level III-IV Control, an enhanced communications suite, modular open systems architecture, and an upgraded Radar Electronics Unit (REU). Capability Version 4 adds Link 16 data link, Air-to-Air-to-Ground (AAG) video relay, system-level embedded diagnostics (SLED), and provisions for reduced-size crashworthy external fuel systems (RCEFS). Capability Version 6 introduces Fire Control Radar (FCR) enhancements, maritime targeting mode, expanded Link-16, image blending, multi-mode laser (MML), and an interactive electronic technical manual (IETM) upgrade.

Production lots are aligned with these capability versions: Lots 1-4 are Version 1 capable, Lots 5-8 are Version 4 capable, and Version 6 capability is integrated beginning with Lot 9. Upgrades are managed as incremental block modifications, allowing for continuous modernization of the fleet. In addition to the airframe and avionics upgrades, the program procures and integrates Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) such as the Modernized Radar Frequency Interferometer (M-RFI), REU, and Manned/Unmanned Teaming Extended Capability (MUMT-X), in accordance with the Army's basis of issue plan.

The advance procurement funding line supports the acquisition of long lead-time components necessary for timely production and delivery of remanufactured aircraft. Advance procurement is divided into two main segments: Government Furnished Equipment, which includes engines, sensors, and avionics, and Contractor Furnished Equipment, which covers production components, provisioning material, pre-modification efforts, and potential termination liability costs. Key long lead items include the main rotor drive shaft, composite main rotor blade, improved drive system, and composite stabilator. The total lead time from material commitment to aircraft delivery exceeds 36 months, necessitating early procurement of these components.

The program's production objective is to remanufacture and procure AH-64E aircraft for the Army, with an acquisition objective that includes new builds. Production is managed through multi-year contracts to maximize cost efficiency and ensure a stable industrial base. The production line is currently tooled for a maximum capacity of aircraft per year on a single shift, with the potential to expand with additional investment in tooling and manpower. The Army's Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation (CAPE) office estimates that a significant portion of funding is required for advance procurement to support these production rates.