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3w ago

First Apache Attack Helicopters Arrive in Townsville, Launching Army Aviation Shift

The initial delivery begins a multi‑year transition toward a North Queensland hub to strengthen U.S. interoperability.

The Australian Army's first two AH-64E Apache helicopters at RAAF Base Townsville. (Caitlyn Davill/Defence)
A military helicopter on tarmac in front of a building bearing the Australian Army insignia.
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Overview

  • Two AH-64E Apache helicopters arrived at RAAF Base Townsville via a US Air Force C‑17, the first of 29 acquired under a A$4.5 billion 2022 deal.
  • Defence says additional aircraft will be delivered before year’s end, with the full fleet due by 2029.
  • The Darwin-based 1st Aviation Regiment is scheduled to relocate to Townsville by 2028 as the ARH Tiger fleet is retired.
  • A seven-year, $306 million initial support contract with Boeing Defence Australia underpins sustainment and is expected to create hundreds of jobs in Queensland.
  • A Townsville aviation training academy run by Aviation Australia and Boeing Defence Australia is slated to start in January 2026 to train local technicians and aircrew.