Senate Passes Kelly-Led Bipartisan Resolution Honoring 50 Years of the AH-64 Apache and the Soldiers Who Fly and Maintain It

In case you missed it, the Senate unanimously passed Arizona Senator Mark Kelly's bipartisan resolution recognizing the achievements and contributions of the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter to the national defense of the United States and its allies, and honoring the dedication, service, and sacrifice of the U.S. Army aviators, maintainers, and support personnel who operate and sustain the Apache. January 26 marks the anniversary of the initial production handover of the AH-64 Apache to the U.S. Army in 1984.

The resolution is cosponsored by Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Katie Britt (R-AL), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).

"On the anniversary of the first Apache delivery to the Army, we're coming together to recognize 50 years of it strengthening our national security and the contributions of the Arizona workers who help build and sustain it," said Kelly. "For decades, the Apache has protected American troops on some of the toughest missions in the world, and I'm proud to help honor that legacy."

"For decades, the Apache has been one of the most important aircraft in our military, providing unmatched strength and support to our soldiers and allies," said Tillis. "I am proud the Senate passed this resolution honoring the brave aviators and dedicated personnel who keep the Apache flying and play a vital role in our national defense.

"Last month, I had the privilege of touring the Boeing facility where Arizona workers build the AH-64 Apache and seeing their work up close. I can tell you that the skill and dedication of the workers I met in Mesa is a big reason the Apache has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable aircraft in U.S. history," said Gallego. "This resolution honors those who fly and maintain the Apache, and I'm glad to see it pass the Senate."

"It's a tremendous honor to recognize the decades of service the AH-64 Apache has had protecting and defending the United States. I'm deeply proud of the Army aviators, engineers, and support personnel who have all played a role in ensuring this aircraft remains one of the most advanced attack helicopters in the world. Growing up outside the gates of Fort Rucker-the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence-I saw firsthand how service and sacrifice run right through the Wiregrass. Fort Rucker is where nearly every Army helicopter pilot in the U.S. trains and where the next generation of aviation leaders is forged. I look forward to seeing how Alabama's capabilities continue to strengthen America's military might long into the future," said Britt.

"This resolution stands as a testament to the AH-64 Apache's enduring importance to the warfighter and the generations of men and women who have devoted their efforts to ensure that this aircraft remains a guardian, symbol of strength, and lifeline on the battlefield," said Christina Upah, vice president of Attack Helicopter Programs and senior Mesa site executive for Boeing. "We are honored to continue partnering with Sen. Mark Kelly, Sen. Ruben Gallego, and our elected leaders in Arizona and across the country in support of our communities and America's defense."

Background:

The AH-64 Apache first flew on September 30, 1975, and over the last five decades has logged more than 5.2 million total flight hours, including 1.3 million combat hours. It has played a decisive role in major U.S. military operations such as Desert Storm, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Inherent Resolve, and continues to support missions around the world.

The Apache has undergone continuous modernization from the AH-64A to today's AH-64E, strengthening its survivability, sensors, and precision strike capability. It is also operated by 18 allied and partner nations, enhancing coalition interoperability and global security. Arizona has served as the final assembly site for the Apache for decades, supporting thousands of jobs and a nationwide supplier network spanning 46 states.

Read the full resolution here.