The Apache Helicopter In Operation Desert Storm

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Summary:

The helicopter has demonstrated in the combat role to be a great benefit in the battlefield. Throughout history, helicopters has been modified to support several missions such as supply, close air support, medical extraction, surveillance, extraction and infiltration of armed forces members. The apache helicopter has proven to be a major asset in the US Army in combat. Since its first flight in 1975, the apache has shown its versatility and capability in the combat field.

II. Problems:

The Apache Helicopter has presented reliability problems in the combat role. In Operation Desert Storm, the Apache helicopter demonstrated their combat skills but it had limited role due to its logistical support problems. The US Army has addressed problems such as “the tail rotor swash plate, shaft- driven compressor, main rotor strap pack, main rotor blades, 30 millimeter gun, and target acquisition and designation site were examples of key components that were experiencing frequent failures and adversely affecting availability” (United States General Accounting Office, 1991, p. 4). These problems affect the reliability of the aircraft and it hinders the capability to perform the mission and provide air support to the ground troops.

III. Significance of the problem:

The Apache Helicopter has suffered …show more content…

Disadvantages: The helicopter industry is advancing at an accelerated rate. With programs like the future vertical lift program, the V-22 program and new variations of helicopters such as the S 97 from Sikorsky Helicopters it hinders the development of the Apache and it makes the helicopter industry insecure. Performing routine, preventive maintenance and inspecting and overhauling components it can be time consuming and it affects the capability and the percentages of mission capable aircraft when they are in a combat zone. It is crucial to provide the support and to maintain a fleet of helicopters mission capable aircraft in order to perform a successful

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