Apaches Fit For Purpose

Several national media outlets have reported that fewer than one in three Apache attack helicopters are 'fit for purpose'. The Apache helicopter is exceedingly fit for purpose in theatre and is fully delivering the required capability.>> Helicopters and aircraft are technologically advanced pieces of equipment. Due to the harsh nature of operations the helicopters require some servicing to be conducted while they are in use on the front line. Priority is always given to operational commitments.>> Our helicopters are meeting all operational tasks and training requirements. Our maintenance programmes are flexible enough to ensure that we continue to meet these demands.>> The MOD is planning to invest over 6billion in helicopters over the next 10 years, a substantial investment by any yardstick. Over this period we intend to invest approximately 2.5billion in enhancements to our current helicopter fleet and ensure that it continues to meet emerging operational requirements. Under current plans this work will include modernisation of our Merlin, Puma and Sea King Medium Lift helicopters, our Chinook Heavy Lift helicopters, and our Apache Attack Helicopters.>> In parallel we intend to invest approximately 3.5billion in procuring new helicopters. Under current plans this will include the procurement of Future Lynx, to replace the Royal Navy and Army's current Lynx helicopters, and of a Future Medium Helicopter which will begin to replace our Puma and Sea King Medium Lift helicopters in the latter part of the next decade.>>> (EDITORS NOTE: On Nov. 23, the Sunday Telegraph reported that Of the 67 now in service with the Army Air Corps, just 20 are available for combat in Afghanistan or for training pilots in the United Kingdom. (.../...