The Utah Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 211th Aviation Regiment, received the first four of 24 new Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters during a ceremony in West Jordan, Utah on Nov. 23.
The AH-64E is the most advanced variant of the Apache to date, offering a suite of enhancements that amplify its combat effectiveness. Col. John Dzieciolowski, commander of the 97th Aviation Troop Command, emphasized that the AH-64E is “the best attack helicopter in the world.” These helicopters are equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including advanced computer systems and transmission upgrades, translating into heightened combat lethality, improved mobility in mountainous terrain, and superior performance in adverse weather conditions – factors that make it well-suited for Utah’s diverse environment.
The arrival of these new helicopters is particularly significant given the Utah Army National Guard’s history with the Apache. The unit first received AH-64s in 1992 and has since deployed them three times since the start of the Global War on Terror. Notably, the 1-211th Attack & Reconnaissance Battalion, operating Apaches, played a crucial role in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan in 2003.
Chief Warrant Officer 4 Joseph VanDrimmelen, a senior pilot for the 1st Battalion, highlighted the strategic importance of this acquisition. He recalled that a decade ago, there was a real threat of the Utah National Guard losing its attack helicopter capability altogether. “The arrival of the AH-64E is exciting not only because it brings the Utah National Guard into parity with the active Army, but just a decade ago, the Guard was in danger of losing the attack helicopter capability altogether,” said VanDrimmelen. “This is special to us because we were able to keep our aircraft and now find ourselves at the forefront of the attack helicopter community.”
The integration of the AH-64E underscores a commitment to modernizing the Utah Army National Guard, ensuring that it remains a potent force, fully prepared to meet the demands of evolving security challenges. Brig. Gen. Keir Scoubes, Land Component Commander of the Utah Army National Guard, praised the AH-64E’s contribution to the unit’s lethality and readiness. The new helicopters will enhance the unit’s combat readiness, training, and ability to support state and national missions.
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