Boeing has raised the Australian flag at its AH-64 Apache helicopter production line in Mesa, Arizona. The flag raising ceremony is held for all Apache customers.
Australia will be the eighteenth nation to operate the Apache as its attack helicopter when it receives its first helicopter in 2025, joining a fleet of more than 1,280 operating worldwide.
“We are honoured to welcome our Australian partners to Mesa for this important milestone and proud to fly their flag as an enduring symbol of our commitment to the people of Australia,” said Christina Upah, vice president of Boeing Attack Helicopter Programs.
Australian suppliers Axiom Precision Manufacturing, Cablex, Ferra Engineering and Thomas Global Systems, which are producing parts and components for the Australian or international fleets, also attended the event alongside Major General Jeremy King, Head Joint Aviation Systems Division.
“The flags that proudly hang in this facility are a constant reminder of the customers we serve and the promise we give to delivering the world’s most advanced and proven attack reconnaissance helicopter," Major General Jeremy King said.
“I am incredibly proud to witness the raising of the Australian flag to adorn this facility, which will be at the heart of production for Australia’s new fleet of Apache attack helicopters.”
Boeing Defence Australia will assist in sustaining the fleet of 29 AH-64E Apaches under a seven-year Initial Support Contract, delivering maintenance, engineering, aircrew and maintainer training, and logistics.