Townsville has officially entered a new era of attack aviation with the arrival of the Australian Army’s first two AH-64E Apache helicopters at RAAF Base Townsville.
The helicopters, acquired through a foreign military sale with the United States, bring advanced capabilities including reconnaissance, communications, firepower, and offensive support, making up a key part of the Army’s shift towards a force optimised for long-range strike capabilities.
The rollout is more than just new aircraft. Boeing Defence Australia will manage the Apache fleet under a seven-year, $306 million contract, creating over 240 jobs across Queensland, including 170 in Townsville. The Townsville Aviation Training Academy will also provide specialised technical courses to train maintenance personnel for both the Apache and CH-47F Chinook fleets.
The Albanese Government is investing $700 million in major upgrades at RAAF Base Townsville to support the Apache introduction and the relocation of the 1st Aviation Regiment and 16th Aviation Brigade Headquarters. Construction is expected to generate 275 jobs in the region.
All 29 Apache helicopters are expected to be delivered by 2029, ensuring Townsville cements its position as the nation’s largest defence helicopter hub.
