The Australian Army is gaining valuable experience in operating the AH-64E Apache attack helicopter through an embedded training program with the British Army. A contingent of eight Australian Army Aviation Command personnel is currently working alongside 3 Regiment Army Air Corps (3 Regt AAC) at Wattisham Flying Station.
Army aviators have been sharing their experience of operating the new Apache AH-64E attack helicopter with their Australian Army counterparts.
Eight soldiers from the Australian Army Aviation Command are working at Wattisham Flying Station in Suffolk to learn about the state-of-the-art AH-64E before it enters Australian service next year.
The Australian troops Ð including engineering officers, aircraft and avionics technicians and ground crew Ð have been working with 3 Regiment Army Air Corps (3 Regt AAC), which introduced the AH-64E into British Army service in 2022.
The embed is part of growing links between the British and Australian militaries following the signing of the AUKUS defence and security agreement in September 2021, which also includes the United States.
The collaboration is part of the broader AUKUS defense partnership, which aims to enhance interoperability between the militaries of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. By training alongside British Apache crews, the Australian Army aims to optimize its operational readiness and maximize the capabilities of its new attack rotorcraft.
The Australian contingent includes engineering officers, aircraft and avionics technicians, and ground crew, providing a comprehensive overview of Apache operations. The opportunity to work closely with the British Army has been invaluable, allowing them to gain first-hand experience in maintaining and operating the complex attack helicopter.
“I’ve been treated just like another soldier in the unit,” said Corporal C, an avionics technician of the Australian Army. “I’ve worked in the hangars at Wattisham and got out in the field on exercises across the UK and overseas. Going out to Finland and Estonia was a real highlight.”
The knowledge and experience gained by the Australian personnel will be instrumental in establishing the necessary infrastructure and training programs for the introduction of the AH-64E into Australian service. The collaboration between the two armies is expected to yield significant benefits for both nations. The introduction of the AH-64E into the Australian Army is expected to significantly enhance its combat capabilities and interoperability with allied forces.
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