Boeing

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has completed delivery of all 35 remanufactured AH-64D Apache helicopters produced for the Egyptian air force (EAF).

The final six AH-64Ds for the EAF arrived in Egypt late last year after Boeing converted them from AH-64A Apaches at its Mesa, Ariz., rotorcraft center. Boeing upgraded the aircraft to the modernized Apache configuration through the Foreign Military Sales process.

A final arrival ceremony was held in Cairo, Egypt, to commemorate the event before 150 members of the EAF, the U.S. Army and Boeing.

"Boeing and the Apache team have enjoyed an outstanding relationship with the Egyptian air force for more than 20 years," said Al Winn, Boeing vice president of Apache programs. "We're proud to know that this relationship will have the opportunity to grow and prosper for many years to come."

At the ceremony, Winn promised continued Boeing support for the Apache and presented Apache models to key EAF officers. Maj. Gen. Sayed Loka, the EAF Air Commander's representative, expressed the EAF's appreciation for the timely completion of the remanufacturing program.

Winn stressed that Boeing will continue to work with the EAF to support its next-generation Apache fleet through the Boeing Support Systems group that is under contract to provide technical support, spare parts, and repair and return services.

The AH-64D Apache features numerous enhanced capabilities, including longer-range weapons accuracy and all-weather/night operations, integrated sensors, networking and digital communications for situational awareness, and real-time combat management.

Since the Apache's inception, Boeing and the U.S. Army have used incremental technology insertions at regular intervals to ensure that the world's most capable multi-role combat helicopter meets the needs of current and future defense forces.

Eleven nations, including the United States, operate or have selected Apache helicopters for their defense needs. More than 1,600 Apaches have been delivered.