The US Army's AH-64 Apache attack helicopter has dominated land combat for decades with its speed, electronics, and deadly firepower. This powerful combination enabled eight Apaches on the first day of the Gulf War to destroy two key Iraqi radar sites and help clear the way to Baghdad for Air Force F-117 stealth aircraft. The Apache has distinguished itself in Afghanistan, Panama, and Israeli-Arab conflicts. The Apache is a twin-engine aircraft with four-blade main and tail rotors and a tandem cockpit for pilot (rear) and copilot gunner (forward). Intended to replace the Bell AH-1 Cobra, it began life as the Hughes YAH-64. McDonnell Douglas purchased Hughes Helicopters in 1984 and then merged with Boeing in 1997. Production and development continued with the vastly improved AH-64D Apache Longbow. Maintenance and other difficulties impeded its effectiveness in Bosnia and Kosovo, however.
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