GE Aerospace has been awarded a three-year contract to provide support for T700-GE-701D engines powering the British Army’s Apache AH-64E helicopter fleet. The agreement, placed by Boeing Defence UK, covers in-service support for the engines that equip the UK’s new-generation attack helicopters.
The Apache AH-64E, which is replacing the older Apache Mk1 in British Army service, is powered by two GE T700-GE-701D turboshaft engines. According to the UK Ministry of Defence, the type offers improved speed, range and capability over the legacy fleet and is configured for missions including close air support, armed reconnaissance, escort, and command and control.
The T700 family is a combat-proven turboshaft engine series widely used on military helicopters and designed for demanding environments. GE Aerospace’s support contract for the UK Apaches is intended to sustain engine availability for the AH-64E fleet as it progresses toward full operating capability, following the initial operating capability declared in May 2023.
The UK’s Apache AH-64E is equipped with the Longbow radar, advanced optical and thermal imaging systems, and a weapons fit that includes Hellfire missiles, Hydra-70 rockets and a 30 mm cannon, all of which depend on reliable engine performance for mission effectiveness.