The Pentagon has converted some attack helicopters Apache of the US Army for use in Arctic scenarios. The helicopters have been optimized with skates and a survival pod for the downed pilots.
The glacial conditions in which he finds himself operating theApache they are practically new, due to the plan to reorganize the aviation of the army which has seen the funds cut for OH-58D helicopters. Instead of light explorers, the army will have an expanded Apache force and UAV systems at its disposal.
The 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion of the 25th Aviation regiment based in Fort Wainwright, it is the first unit in Alaska to have been given permanent modifications on the Apache.
However, the Pentagon is pushing the platform, probably the most complex ever deployed by the US in the Arctic, to standard temperatures of minus twenty degrees above the limit. The first tests carried out showed delays in restarting on-board computers and leaks.
The Pentagon has admitted, and frankly it seems absurd, that on theApache no climatic tests have ever been carried out.
The main US attack helicopter was not really designed to operate in extreme conditions for extended periods of time. This could be a problem if you find yourself facing a hostile force in the Region.
