Singapore interested in upgrading existing AH-64D Apaches to latest Guardian variant

RSAF AH-64D Apache Longbow attack helicopters. Photo c/o Singapore MINDEF.

American aviation giant Boeing has confirmed during the sidelines of the Singapore Airshow 2020 that the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has expressed its interest to rebuild 12 of its 20 existing AH-64D Apache Longbow attack helicopters to the latest AH-64E Apache Guardian variant, according to a report by IHS Jane’s.

The RSAF currently has 12 AH-64D Apache Longbows based in Singapore as part of the 120 Squadron, while 8 aircraft are based in Silverbell Army Heliport in Marana, Arizona and used for training as part of the Peace Vanguard detachment.

Boeing also confirmed that they are expecting new and follow-on orders for the Apache attack helicopter in the Asia-Pacific region, benefiting from the latest technology integrated to the platform. This allows Boeing’s AH-64E Apache Guardian to be more competitive against other similar platforms.

Aside from Singapore, other countries in the region that operate the Apache family are India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Boeing has also confirmed last January that other countries have expressed interest in the Apache, including Australia, Bangladesh, the Philippines, and Thailand.


[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly
[2] Australian Aviation
[3] Inquirer.net