Why does Poland request as many as 96 AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters?
There are many factors in favour of Poland's decision to acquisition 96 AH-64E Apache Guardian impact helicopters. But 1 of the most crucial arguments is to increase the ability to deter and conduct kinetic activities against possible conventional aggressor. In the current geopolitical situation – in the face of a real threat from the Russian Federation – Poland needs a strong impact component capable of effectively destroying the armoured forces and mechanized opponents. AH-64E is simply a proven anti-tank combat platform, allowing operations to be conducted both day and night, besides in conditions of electronic interference.
Another key argument it is essential to replace obsolete Mi-24D/W helicopters that no longer meet the modern requirements of the battlefield. They deficiency modern fire control systems, efficient precision weapons and interoperability with NATO command systems. AH-64E full complies with allied standards, allowing effective joint operations with NATO troops, including the United States.
Purchase of 96 machines importantly strengthens the maneuvering component Land troops and Aeromobile troops. This number of helicopters allows simultaneous fire support for respective tactical compounds, e.g. 16 and 18 Mechanized Divisions and 6 Airborne Brigades. Provides this ability to respond quickly, support landing operations, carrying out mobile defence and damaging the enemy's goals at a long distance.
It is besides worth emphasizing the importance of Apache integration into allied and American systems within regional defence architecture. The AH-64E chopper can operate in close cooperation with American command systems (C2), JTAC teams, precision artillery and BSP. specified interoperability is crucial in the context of the presence of US troops in Poland and preparations for joint action within the east flank of NATO. The advanced technological version of AH-64E v6 besides allows efficient operation in multi-domain environments. Thanks to the MUM-T systems (manned-unmanned teaming), these helicopters can work with unmanned MALE-class systems, which increases situational awareness on the battlefield and precision of mark destruction.
A large number of helicopters purchased besides supply the ability to operate on a wide front. The area of possible conflict may extend from Suwałczyzna to Lublin – 96 Apaches will let simultaneous action in respective operational areas, without having to limit to 1 direction of action.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that specified a large order creates grounds for building a national training and service system. This enables the establishment of a national centre for crew training and maintenance, which leads to independency from abroad centres and the improvement of industrial competences in the country. In the long term, this translates into lower training and operation costs and increased operational efficiency of the AH-64E fleet in the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland.
