301 Squadron receives first Apache Guardian
On 14 March 2024, the first Koninklijke Luchtmacht (KLu, Royal Netherlands Air Force) AH-64E Apache Guardian was delivered to 301 Squadron Per Sapientam Efficiens et Immortalis at Gilze-Rijen air base.
The attack helicopter, bearing serial number Q-37 (c/n NL007), initially visited the low-flying area (Gebied Laag Vliegen) GLV-V at the Oirschotse Heide before landing at its new home base.
The Apache Guardian was delivered on 7 December 2023, to the Logistics Center Woensdrecht (LCW) as airfreight by a USAF C-17A Globemaster II. At the LCW, the new helicopters are assembled and undergo necessary maintenance. Following a process of system implementations and checks, a certificate of airworthiness is issued.
The Netherlands ordered a total of 28 AH-64E Apache Guardian version v6 attack helicopters to replace the AH-64DN Apache helicopters. The first six, with serials Q-31 to Q-36, were delivered to 302 Squadron at Robert Grey Army Airfield / Fort Cavazos (TX).
The final delivery of the new helicopters is scheduled for 2025.
Credit photo: Maurice Hendriks (afterburner.nl)