Boeing

Six Boeing-built [NYSE: BA] AH-64D Apache Longbow multi-role combat helicopters for the Kuwait air force debuted today in Kuwait during a rollout ceremony. The U.S. Army delivered the aircraft to the Kuwait air force over the past several months through a foreign military sales contract.

The helicopters are part of a 16-aircraft order signed in 2002 between Kuwait's Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Department of Defense. The delivery schedules for the remaining 10 aircraft and contract details have not been announced.

Kuwait is the seventh international defense force to select the AH-64D and the 11th Apache customer worldwide.

"Delivery of these Apache Longbow aircraft on schedule for the Kuwaiti air force reinforces our 'promises made, promises kept' commitment to our customers and further strengthens the long-term customer relationships we have in this region," said Tommy Filler, director of Boeing International Apache Programs. "Boeing remains committed to sustaining the advanced capabilities of the Apache Longbow and ensuring that our Kuwaiti customer has the support needed to effectively operate and maintain this important asset."

The AH-64D Apache Longbow, produced by Boeing in Mesa, Ariz., features fully integrated avionics and weapons plus a state-of-the-art modem that transmits real-time, secure, digitized battlefield information to air and ground forces. The Apache Longbow has the ability to rapidly detect, classify, prioritize and engage stationary or moving enemy targets at standoff ranges in nearly all weather environments.