The U.S. Army and Boeing can't fix a problem with generators in AH-64E Apache attack helicopters that causes the cockpit to fill with smoke
For nearly two years, the US Army has been recording an increasing number of generator failures in the AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. The problem has not yet been resolved.
Here's What We Know
Last week, the US Department of Defence released several reports on major procurement programmes. Among them was a document on the US Army's AH-64E Apache fleet, dated December last year. The report revealed some details of a problem that is still unresolved.
The malfunction creates potentially hazardous flight conditions and forces pilots to make unplanned landings. When the generator fails, the AH-64E Apache's cockpit can fill with smoke. As a result, visibility is impaired and pilots experience breathing problems.
The problem has not been fixed at this time. The U.S. Army has taken temporary measures to remedy the situation. A long-term solution is under study. It is also noted that the generator malfunction has never caused an AH-64E Apache to crash.
Despite the unresolved problem, the U.S. continues to approve sales of attack helicopters. In particular, the State Department recently approved the potential sale of nearly a hundred AH-64E Apache to Poland.
Source: Breaking Defence