Editing AgustaWestland Apache (section)

==Operational history==

===Overview===
[[File:Army Air Corps Apache Helicopter Pilot Prepares forTake Off MOD 45154502.jpg|thumb|Showing CRV7 rocket pods and rails for Hellfire missiles in 2012|alt=Front-end view of attack helicopter taking off]]

In May 2005, the first Apache-equipped regiment achieved operational status.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-4309208/First-Apache-Attack-Helicopter-regiment.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120311164652/http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-4309208/First-Apache-Attack-Helicopter-regiment.html |url-status= dead |archive-date= 11 March 2012 |title= First Apache Attack Helicopter regiment fully operational |publisher= M2 Presswire |date= 25 May 2005}}</ref> The Westland Apache replaced the [[Westland Lynx|Westland Lynx AH7]] as the British Army's tactical attack helicopter. The Apache was operated by two regiments of the [[Army Air Corps (United Kingdom)|Army Air Corps]] (3 Regt AAC and 4 Regt AAC) as part of [[1st Aviation Brigade Combat Team (United Kingdom)|1st Aviation Brigade]]. The Apache was intended to operate in the armed reconnaissance and attack roles, similar to the US usage of Apaches during the 1991 Gulf War. Unlike US versions, the Westland Apache had been partially navalised and for a time served aboard [[Royal Navy]] ships in addition to its land-based role.<ref name="seatrials1"/> It achieved maritime certification in December 2005 aboard [[HMS Ocean (L12)|HMS ''Ocean'']]. On 17 November 2006, [[HMS Ark Royal (R07)|HMS ''Ark Royal'']] became the first aircraft carrier to land an Apache AH1.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/topstories/6760.html |title= Apache Lands on U.K. Carrier Ark Royal |publisher= Aviation Today |date= 17 November 2006 |access-date= 4 May 2010 |archive-date= 3 March 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160303184045/http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/topstories/6760.html |url-status= live}}</ref>

They first appeared in combat as part of [[Operation Herrick]] in Afghanistan in May 2006.<ref name=Hoyle20131128 /> In August 2006, the intense usage of Apaches in Afghanistan led to British commanders admitting that weapons and spare parts were being used at a far greater rate, and subsequently a greater cost, than anticipated.<ref>{{cite web |first= Neil |last= Tweedie |url= https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/1527468/Troops-use-up-ammo-as-war-with-Taliban-claims-14th-life.html |title= Troops use up ammo as war with Taliban claims 14th life |work= The Telegraph |date= 28 August 2006 |access-date= 2 April 2018 |archive-date= 7 July 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160707105216/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/1527468/Troops-use-up-ammo-as-war-with-Taliban-claims-14th-life.html |url-status= live}}</ref> On 11 November 2007, it was reported that half of the Apache gunships in British service had been grounded as they had fallen below the level considered "fit for purpose", along with several other British Helicopters such as the [[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Chinook]] and [[AgustaWestland AW101|Merlin HC3]].<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1568987/Half-of-Army-gunships-are-grounded.html |title= Half of Army gunships are grounded |first= Robert |last= Watts |work= The Daily Telegraph |date= 11 November 2007 |access-date= 2 April 2018 |archive-date= 25 September 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150925144748/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1568987/Half-of-Army-gunships-are-grounded.html |url-status= live}}</ref> By November 2008, the situation had further declined, out of 67 aircraft only 20 were available for combat operations.<ref name= 'sean fit'>{{cite web |first= Sean |last= Rayment |url= https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/defence/3501340/Fewer-than-one-in-three-of-Britains-Apache-attack-helicopters-fit-for-purpose.html |title= Fewer than one in three of Britain's Apache attack helicopters 'fit for purpose' |work= The Telegraph |date= 22 November 2008 |access-date= 2 April 2018 |archive-date= 10 October 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20161010074619/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/defence/3501340/Fewer-than-one-in-three-of-Britains-Apache-attack-helicopters-fit-for-purpose.html |url-status= live}}</ref> In 2009, AgustaWestland was awarded a contract for support services for the Apache and many components such as the Longbow radar; in the following months senior officers noted that the support change had resulted in higher availability.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/Supporting-Britains-Apaches-WAH-64-IOS-Contract-05845/ |title= Supporting Britain's Apaches: AW's IOS Contract |publisher= Defense Industry Daily |date= 22 February 2010 |access-date= 29 May 2011 |archive-date= 21 October 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111021015136/https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/Supporting-Britains-Apaches-WAH-64-IOS-Contract-05845/ |url-status= live}}</ref> In June 2011, civilian maintainers of the Apache at Wattisham Airfield threatened [[industrial action]] over a pay dispute.<ref>[http://www.buryfreepress.co.uk/news/local/base_s_apache_engineers_could_take_strike_action_1_2781213 "Base’s Apache engineers could take strike action."]{{Dead link|date=October 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}} ''Bury Free Press'', 20 June 2011.</ref>

In October 2008 it was announced that [[Prince Harry]] had begun the process of qualifying to become an Apache pilot.{{cn|date=February 2020}} In May 2010, the terrorist organisation [[Al Qaeda]] threatened to abduct the prince if he piloted an Apache in Afghanistan.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-05-09/uk/28281583_1_al-qaida-qaida-secret-deployment |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120902075730/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-05-09/uk/28281583_1_al-qaida-qaida-secret-deployment |url-status= dead |archive-date= 2 September 2012 |work= [[The Times of India]] |title= Al-Qaida threatens to abduct Prince Harry, if he flies Apache helicopter |date = 9 May 2010}}</ref> In April 2011, Prince Harry was promoted to captain following his completion of Apache conversion training.<ref>{{cite web|first=Paul |last=Harrison |url=http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/Prince-Harry-Promoted-To-Captain-And-Trained-As-Apache-Attack-Helicopter-Pilot/Article/201104315973836?lpos=UK_News_Carousel_Region_2&lid=ARTICLE_15973836_Prince_Harry_Promoted_To_Captain_And_Trained_As_Apache_Attack_Helicopter_Pilot |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714124434/http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/Prince-Harry-Promoted-To-Captain-And-Trained-As-Apache-Attack-Helicopter-Pilot/Article/201104315973836?lpos=UK_News_Carousel_Region_2&lid=ARTICLE_15973836_Prince_Harry_Promoted_To_Captain_And_Trained_As_Apache_Attack_Helicopter_Pilot |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 July 2012 |title=Prince Harry Reaches Rank of Army Captain |publisher=Sky News |date=17 April 2011}}</ref> In June 2011, sections of the media reported that Prince Harry was to deploy to Afghanistan as an Apache pilot in 2012.<ref name = 'har ret'>{{cite web |first = Nick |last = Collins |url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/prince-harry/8578644/Prince-Harry-to-return-to-Afghanistan.html |title = Prince Harry to return to Afghanistan |work = The Telegraph |date = 16 June 2011 |access-date = 2 April 2018 |archive-date = 14 June 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180614024632/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/prince-harry/8578644/Prince-Harry-to-return-to-Afghanistan.html |url-status = live}}</ref> He subsequently deployed to Afghanistan as part of [[No. 662 Squadron AAC|662 Squadron]] in September 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-19516079|title = Prince Harry deployed to Afghanistan|publisher = BBC|date = 7 September 2012|access-date = 20 June 2018|archive-date = 22 June 2018|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180622142200/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-19516079|url-status = live}}</ref>

Three Apaches were deployed to [[Bardufoss Air Station]] in Norway in January 2019. The deployment, known as ''Exercise Clockwork'', represented the aircraft's first cold weather training within the [[Arctic Circle]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.forces.net/news/exercise-clockwork-army-apaches-make-arctic-debut|title=Exercise Clockwork: Army Apaches Make Arctic Debut|last=Ricks|first=Rebecca|date=29 January 2019|website=Forces Network|language=en|access-date=29 January 2019|archive-date=30 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190130053214/https://www.forces.net/news/exercise-clockwork-army-apaches-make-arctic-debut|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Afghanistan===
The Apache's first operational tour was as part of 16 Air Assault Brigade in Afghanistan; there were eight Apache AH1s deployed in Afghanistan in February 2007.<ref>{{cite journal |title= Parliamentary questions to The Secretary of State for Defence (Des Browne) |journal= Hansard |date= 26 February 2007 |url= https://publications.parliament.uk/cgi-bin/newhtml_hl?DB=semsimple&STEMMER=en&WORDS=apach&ALL=&ANY=&PHRASE=&CATEGORIES=&SIMPLE=apache&SPEAKER=&COLOUR=Red&STYLE=s&ANCHOR=70226-0002.htm_spnew19&URL=/pa/cm200607/cmhansrd/cm070226/debtext/70226-0002.htm#70226-0002.htm_spnew19 |id= 122586 |access-date= 20 October 2021 |archive-date= 21 January 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210121192514/https://publications.parliament.uk/cgi-bin/newhtml_hl?DB=semsimple&STEMMER=en&WORDS=apach&ALL=&ANY=&PHRASE=&CATEGORIES=&SIMPLE=apache&SPEAKER=&COLOUR=Red&STYLE=s&ANCHOR=70226-0002.htm_spnew19&URL=%2Fpa%2Fcm200607%2Fcmhansrd%2Fcm070226%2Fdebtext%2F70226-0002.htm#70226-0002.htm_spnew19 |url-status= live}}</ref> These were drawn from [[No. 656 Squadron AAC|No. 656 Squadron]] and [[No. 664 Squadron AAC|No. 664 Squadron]] of [[9 Regiment Army Air Corps|9 Regiment AAC]], based at [[Dishforth Airfield]].<ref>{{cite news |last= Calvert |first= Denis J |title= Fact File: UK Air Power in Afghanistan |work= Aircraft Illustrated |page= 34 |publisher= Ian Allan |date= February 2007}}</ref> Unlike their American counterparts in Afghanistan, the Apache AH1 is deployed with its Longbow Fire Control Radar to enable the pilot to better manage traffic in their airspace.<ref name= 'did 2007'>{{cite web |url= http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/afghan-field-report-british-wah-64ds-04289/ |title= Afghan Field Report: British WAH-64Ds |publisher= Defense Industry Daily |date= 26 November 2007 |access-date= 27 November 2007 |archive-date= 28 November 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071128151211/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/afghan-field-report-british-wah-64ds-04289/ |url-status= live}}</ref> Initially pilots had to often fly for 16–18 hours at a time due to the low number of Apaches in the theatre;<ref>{{cite web |first= Dan |last= Cairns |url= https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13876560 |title= Precise and deadly: A pilot's view of the Apache |work= BBC News |date= 24 June 2011 |access-date= 20 June 2018 |archive-date= 15 April 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180415090414/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13876560 |url-status= live}}</ref> typically each Apache would be stationed in Afghanistan for eight weeks before returning to Britain for roughly eight weeks of maintenance.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/KeepingTheApacheReadyToTakeOnTheTaliban.htm |title= Keeping the Apache ready to take on the Taliban |publisher= MOD |date= 12 January 2011 |access-date= 27 June 2011 |archive-date= 19 May 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110519210441/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/KeepingTheApacheReadyToTakeOnTheTaliban.htm |url-status= live}}</ref> On 22 May 2006, a UK Apache operating in Afghanistan's [[Helmand province]] used a [[Hellfire missile]] to destroy an abandoned French vehicle to protect sensitive equipment.<ref name= 'Walsh Guardian'>{{cite web |url= https://www.theguardian.com/world/2006/jul/10/military.politics |title= Apaches and Land Rovers versus a guy with a detonator |first= Declan |last= Walsh |work= The Guardian |date= 10 July 2006 |access-date= 16 December 2016 |archive-date= 5 March 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160305102409/http://www.theguardian.com/world/2006/jul/10/military.politics |url-status= live}}</ref>

[[File:Apache Helicopter Firing Rockets MOD 45154922.jpg|thumb|right|Firing rockets at insurgents during a 2008 patrol in Afghanistan|alt=Colour photograph of an Apache Attack helicopter at right of image facing left, firing two rockets at a target beyond the bottom left of the frame.]]
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The Apache quickly became a highly valued tool against insurgents, able to rapidly respond to Taliban forces on the ground.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/afghanistan/1522105/Apache-earns-its-stripes-above-the-Afghan-battlefield.html |title= Apache earns its stripes above the Afghan battlefield |first= Thomas |last= Harding |work= The Daily Telegraph |date= 23 June 2006 |access-date= 2 April 2018 |archive-date= 7 July 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160707094027/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/afghanistan/1522105/Apache-earns-its-stripes-above-the-Afghan-battlefield.html |url-status= live}}</ref> Major Huw Williams, second in command of [[3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment]], stated that: "We're really impressed [with the Apache]. It's a very effective beast."<ref name= 'Walsh Guardian'/> It has been noted that Taliban forces refer to the aircraft as the "Mosquito".

On 13 January 2007, a 200-strong British force, led by [[Royal Marines]], launched an operation to attack [[Jugroom Fort]], a major Taliban base in southern Helmand Province.<ref name='rescue'>{{cite web|url=http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/MilitaryOperations/MarinesAttemptDaringApacheRescueDuringAfghanistanOperationvideo.htm |title=Marines attempt daring Apache rescue during Afghanistan Operation |publisher=Ministry of Defense |date=17 January 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070205103826/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/MilitaryOperations/MarinesAttemptDaringApacheRescueDuringAfghanistanOperationvideo.htm |archive-date=5 February 2007}}</ref><ref>Lewis 2009, pp. 1–3.</ref> After several hours of intense fighting, the Marines regrouped and it was discovered that [[Lance Corporal]] Mathew Ford of [[45 Commando|45 Commando Royal Marines]] was missing. A rescue mission was launched using four volunteers, Royal Marines and a Royal Engineer, strapped to the stub-wings of two Apaches.<ref name= 'rescue'/> The helicopters could not travel above 50&nbsp;mph to ensure the safety of the extra passengers from [[downwash|rotor downwash]]. The Apaches landed under fire inside the compound, after which the rescuers dismounted and recovered the body of LCpl Ford. Ford's body was flown out in the same manner that the soldiers arrived.<ref name= 'rescue'/> Another Apache hovered above, providing suppressive fire throughout.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6269613.stm |title= Troops made rescue bid for marine |work= BBC News |date= 17 January 2007 |access-date= 17 January 2007 |archive-date= 19 January 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070119204618/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6269613.stm |url-status= live}}</ref> None of the rescuers were injured in the recovery mission and they were later hailed for their bravery.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6386331.stm |title= Helicopter rescue marines hailed |work= BBC News |date= 22 January 2007 |access-date= 22 February 2007 |archive-date= 24 February 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070224105023/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6386331.stm |url-status= live}}</ref>

[[File:UK Army Air Corps AHDT WAH-64D Longbow Apache AH1 ZJ203 ILA Berlin 2016 01.jpg|thumb|left|Front view of Apache AH1 at Berlin Air Show 2016]]
In May and June 2008, British and [[Afghan National Army]] forces conducted [[Helmand province campaign#Operation Eagle's Eye|Operation Eagle's Eye]], aimed at disrupting Taliban activities to the south of [[Musa Qaleh]]; a key portion of which was a major night-time helicopter raid, rapidly deploying members of [[2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment]] into the town.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blogs.mod.uk/afghanistan/2008/06/british-troops.html |title=British troops and ANA in Apache-backed operation |publisher=MOD |date=4 June 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111005061446/http://www.blogs.mod.uk/afghanistan/2008/06/british-troops.html |archive-date=5 October 2011}}</ref> In June 2008, a British Apache fired a [[thermobaric]] Hellfire missile; the controversial usage of such weapons was approved after extensive legal and ethical evaluations within the MoD.<ref>{{cite news |first= Michael |last= Smith |url= http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article4187835.ece |title= Army 'vacuum' missile hits Taliban |work= The Times |date= 22 June 2008 |access-date= 28 May 2011 |archive-date= 11 October 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081011190557/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article4187835.ece |url-status= dead}}</ref> In June 2008, a Taliban leader and several cell members were killed in Helmand Province by a Hellfire missile launched by an Apache of the 664 Army Air Corps.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://frontierindia.net/uk-apache-fires-hellfire-missiles-to-kill-taliban-fighters |title=UK Apache fires Hellfire missiles to kill Taliban fighters |publisher=Frontier India |date=30 June 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091014011008/http://frontierindia.net/uk-apache-fires-hellfire-missiles-to-kill-taliban-fighters |archive-date=14 October 2009}}</ref> There was a [[friendly fire]] incident in July 2008, in which an Apache fired upon a position thought to be held by enemy forces, but instead hit members of a British patrol; this was the first time that a British aircraft had been involved in a [[Friendly fire|blue-on-blue]] incident in Afghanistan.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Coghlan |first1=Tom |last2=Baldwin |first2=Tom |date=11 July 2008 |title=Nine injured in Afghanistan as helicopter fires on own troops |work=The Times |location=London}}</ref> In September 2008, an Apache was seriously damaged by a crash shortly after takeoff in Helmand province; no loss of life occurred but the airframe was written off.<ref>{{cite web |first= Craig |last= Hoyle |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/09/05/315646/uk-apache-crashes-in-afghanistan-crew-safe.html |title= UK Apache crashes in Afghanistan, crew safe |work= Flight International |date= 5 September 2008 |access-date= 2 June 2011 |archive-date= 30 June 2012 |archive-url= https://archive.today/20120630164813/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-apache-crashes-in-afghanistan-crew-safe-315646/ |url-status= live}}</ref><ref name=Hoyle20131128 />

In early to mid-2009, several [[narcotics]] and bomb-making facilities were raided by British forces, supported by Apaches.<ref name='boeing 2009'>{{cite web|url=http://www.boeing.com/Microsites/IDS/2009/apache/issue_01/international_s2_p2.html |title=British Apaches Prevent Disruptions of Afghan Elections |publisher=Boeing |date=20 June 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121014033955/http://www.boeing.com/Microsites/IDS/2009/apache/issue_01/international_s2_p2.html |archive-date=14 October 2012}}</ref> During the summer of 2009, British Apaches were an integral component of [[Operation Panther's Claw]], which was aimed at pushing insurgents out of civilian areas in the runup to the [[Afghan presidential election, 2009|2009 Afghan Elections]].<ref name= 'boeing 2009'/> During this major offensive, Apaches from the UK routinely flew alongside US Cobra helicopters to provide air support to soldiers of the [[Black Watch|Royal Regiment of Scotland]] and the Royal Marines conducting ground operations.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2009/05/05/story13083456t0.shtm |title=The Black Watch in strike at Taliban |work=Evening Telegraph|date=5 May 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120316001645/http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2009/05/05/story13083456t0.shtm |archive-date=16 March 2012}}</ref> During the Summer 2009 operations, a senior Taliban leader, Mullah Mansur, and several accomplices were killed in a precision strike launched by an Apache.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8079602.stm |title= UK forces 'kill Taliban leader' |work= BBC News |date= 2 June 2009 |access-date= 27 May 2011 |archive-date= 5 June 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090605164226/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8079602.stm |url-status= live}}</ref>

On 25 July 2011, the MoD announced that during a combat operation in the Nahr-e-Saraj district of Helmand province, several Afghan children had been injured from crossfire by an Apache; they were flown to Camp Bastion for medical treatment.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14277631 |title= Afghan children injured by UK Apache helicopter attack |work= BBC News |date= 25 July 2011 |access-date= 20 June 2018 |archive-date= 24 September 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200924043812/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14277631 |url-status= live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.theguardian.com/world/2011/jul/25/nato-apache-helicopter-children-afghanistan |title= British Apache helicopter injures children in Afghanistan |work= The Guardian |date= 25 July 2011 |access-date= 16 December 2016 |archive-date= 27 September 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160927191858/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2011/jul/25/nato-apache-helicopter-children-afghanistan |url-status= live}}</ref>

From 2006 to April 2014, British Apache helicopters flew 50,000 hours in Afghanistan, representing one-third of all UK Apache flying.<ref>[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/apache-flies-50000-hours-on-operations-in-afghanistan Apache flies 50,000 hours on operations in Afghanistan] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416191902/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/apache-flies-50000-hours-on-operations-in-afghanistan |date=16 April 2014}} – Gov.UK, 14 April 2014</ref> The UK ended combat operations in Afghanistan in October 2014.<ref>{{cite news |last=Johnson |first=Kay |date=26 October 2014 |title=Britain ends combat role in Afghanistan, last U.S. Marines hand over base |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-troopwithdrawal-idUSKBN0IF06I20141026 |work=www.reuters.com |location= |access-date=2021-01-26 |archive-date=5 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210205162031/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-troopwithdrawal-idUSKBN0IF06I20141026 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Naval operations and Libya===
[[File:Apache Helicopter Takes off from HMS Ocean During Operation Ellamy MOD 45153051.jpg|thumb|Operating from {{HMS|Ocean|L12|6}} off Libya, 2011|alt=Helicopter flies towards camera from aviation ship at sea]]
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[[File:HMS Ocean nearing the end of her Operational Sea Training with Chinook and Apache on deck. MOD 45158421.jpg|thumb|left|Apache and [[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Chinook]] at sea on [[HMS Ocean (L12)|HMS ''Ocean'']] in November 2014]]

In May 2011, the MoD announced that the Apache fleet had reached 100,000 hours flying time, and describing it as a "vital battlefield tool in Afghanistan".<ref name = 'MOD 2011'>{{cite web |url = http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/ApacheClocksUp100000FlyingHours.htm |title = Apache clocks up 100,000 flying hours |publisher = Ministry of Defence |date = 26 May 2011 |access-date = 27 May 2011 |archive-date = 31 May 2011 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110531124225/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/ApacheClocksUp100000FlyingHours.htm |url-status = live}}</ref> The Apache was also recognised as having established a "limited maritime strike capability" and were deploying on vessels such as HMS ''Ocean''.<ref name = 'MOD 2011'/> On 17 May 2011, the Apache tested its Hellfire missiles against sea targets for the first time, 9 missiles were fired with a 100% success rate.<ref>{{cite web |first = Craig |last = Hoyle |url = http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/05/17/356832/pictures-uk-apaches-score-100-in-maritime-hellfire.html |title = UK Apaches score 100% in maritime Hellfire tests |work = Flight International |date = 17 May 2011 |access-date = 27 May 2011 |archive-date = 28 May 2011 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110528175612/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/05/17/356832/pictures-uk-apaches-score-100-in-maritime-hellfire.html |url-status = live}}</ref> 

On 27 May 2011, military officials announced that Apaches would be deployed as part of [[Operation Ellamy]], the ongoing [[2011 military intervention in Libya|military intervention in Libya]]. The helicopters operated from the flight deck of HMS ''Ocean'' in conjunction with French [[Eurocopter Tiger]] helicopters over [[Misrata]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/David-Cameron-Confirms-Britain-Will-Send-Apache-Helicopters-To-Libya-To-Step-Up-Campaign/Article/201102416000589? |title=UK Apaches Deployed in Libya in 24 Hours |publisher=Sky News |date=27 May 2011}}{{dead link|date=June 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/fearful-gaddafi-hides-in-hospital-2289854.html |title = Fearful Gaddafi 'hides in hospital' |work = The Independent |date = 27 May 2011 |access-date = 29 August 2017 |archive-date = 2 August 2012 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20120802101711/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/fearful-gaddafi-hides-in-hospital-2289854.html |url-status = live}}</ref> The Apaches were also to assist in [[Operation Unified Protector]], the enforcement of an embargo and no-fly zone upon Libya.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/MilitaryOperations/ApachesGetReadyToHelpProtectLibyanCivilians.htm |title = Apaches get ready to help protect Libyan civilians |publisher = Ministry of Defence |date = 27 May 2011 |access-date = 28 May 2011 |archive-date = 18 October 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121018125919/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/MilitaryOperations/ApachesGetReadyToHelpProtectLibyanCivilians.htm |url-status = live}}</ref> On 14 June 2011, reports of British preparation to evacuate [[Yemen]] emerged, involving Apache and [[AgustaWestland AW101|Merlin]] helicopters operating from [[Royal Fleet Auxiliary]] vessels off the coast.<ref>{{cite web |first = Thomas |last = Harding |url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/yemen/8575410/Britain-to-send-Apache-helicopters-to-Yemen.html |title = Britain to send Apache helicopters to Yemen |work = The Telegraph |date = 14 June 2011 |access-date = 2 April 2018 |archive-date = 23 December 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181223225129/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/yemen/8575410/Britain-to-send-Apache-helicopters-to-Yemen.html |url-status = live}}</ref>

On 4 June 2011, Apaches struck targets within Libya for the first time, destroying a radar site and an armed checkpoint near the town of [[Brega]].<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13651736 |title = UK Apache helicopters used in Nato attacks |work = BBC News |date = 4 June 2011 |access-date = 20 June 2018 |archive-date = 4 June 2011 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110604111925/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13651736 |url-status = live}}</ref> Further precision strikes were launched by Apaches, typical targets were mobile air defenses, and were occasionally engaged by [[AK-47]] fire from ground troops.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8557368/Apache-strike-steps-up-battle-against-Gaddafi.html |title = Apache strike steps up battle against Gaddafi |first = Patrick |last = Hennessey |work = The Daily Telegraph |date = 4 June 2011 |access-date = 2 April 2018 |archive-date = 2 November 2019 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191102113816/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8557368/Apache-strike-steps-up-battle-against-Gaddafi.html |url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first = Kim |last = Sengupta |url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8558289/Libya-precision-and-restraint-as-Apaches-hit-their-target.html |title = Libya: precision and restraint as Apaches hit their target |work = The Telegraph |date = 5 June 2011 |access-date = 2 April 2018 |archive-date = 10 August 2020 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200810111531/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8558289/Libya-precision-and-restraint-as-Apaches-hit-their-target.html |url-status = live}}</ref> In early June, Apaches conducted attacks on Gaddafi loyalists assaulting the town of [[Misrata]].<ref>{{cite web |first = Ruth |last = Sherlock |url = http://news.scotsman.com/world/Gaddafi-hammers-Misrata-frontline-after.6783208.jp |title = Gaddafi hammers Misrata frontline after UK Apache helicopters strike |work = The Scotsman |date = 11 June 2011}}</ref> On 13 June, British Apaches destroyed several inflatable boats with 30&nbsp;mm cannon fire, believed to be Libyan Special Forces, before engaging and destroying multiple vehicles along the coastline, including an anti-aircraft system.<ref>{{cite news |title = Rebels push on as Apaches and RAF fighters strike Gaddafi's forces |publisher = British Forces News |date = 13 June 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Sam |last=Kiley |url=http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Libya-Sam-Kiley-On-Whether-The-Nato-Operation-Is-Losing-Momentum-As-Gaddafi-Refuses-To-Go/Article/201106216010975?lpos=World_News_First_World_News_Feature_Teaser_Region_0&lid=ARTICLE_16010975_Libya%3A_Sam_Kiley_On_Whether_The_Nato_Operation_Is_Losing_Momentum_As_Gaddafi_Refuses_To_Go |title=Is Nato's Mission in Libya Losing Momentum? |publisher=Sky News |date=13 June 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110616110627/http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Libya-Sam-Kiley-On-Whether-The-Nato-Operation-Is-Losing-Momentum-As-Gaddafi-Refuses-To-Go/Article/201106216010975?lpos=World_News_First_World_News_Feature_Teaser_Region_0&lid=ARTICLE_16010975_Libya%3A_Sam_Kiley_On_Whether_The_Nato_Operation_Is_Losing_Momentum_As_Gaddafi_Refuses_To_Go |archive-date=16 June 2011}}</ref> On 25 June, in coordination with RAF [[Panavia Tornado|Tornado]] strikes, Apaches attacked loyalist infantry and vehicles around [[Brega]] and its airfield.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bfbs.com/news/worldwide/uk-ground-attack-aircraft-and-destroyer-take-gaddafis-forces-49023.html |title=UK ground attack aircraft and destroyer take on Gaddafi's forces |publisher=British forces News |date=25 June 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322173059/http://bfbs.com/news/worldwide/uk-ground-attack-aircraft-and-destroyer-take-gaddafis-forces-49023.html |archive-date=22 March 2012}}</ref> On 1 July, British Apaches were reportedly involved in a 'fierce' battle at the town of [[Khoms, Libya|Khoms]].<ref>{{cite news |first = Christ |last = Hughes |url = https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/07/01/british-apache-helicopters-in-libya-launch-fiercest-blitz-yet-against-gaddafi-thugs-115875-23238958/ |title = British Apache helicopters in Libya launch fiercest blitz yet against Gaddafi thugs |work = Daily Mirror |date = 1 July 2011}}</ref> On 2 July, Apaches destroyed several tanks and a bunker at a military camp near [[Zawiya, Libya|Zawiya]].<ref>{{Cite web |url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-14003423 |title = Libya: Air raid on Gaddafi military camp |work = BBC News |date = 2 July 2011 |access-date = 20 June 2018 |archive-date = 8 June 2021 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210608124912/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-14003423 |url-status = live}}</ref> On 5 August, Apaches participated in the rebel push for the town of [[Zliten]] was reported.<ref>{{cite news |first = Simeon |last = Kerr |title = Libyan rebels prepare push towards Tripoli |work = Financial Times |date = 5 August 2011}}</ref>

By 21 June 2011, the Libyan government had dubiously claimed to have successfully shot down dozens of aircraft, including five Apaches; NATO denied these claims and no Apache losses have been acknowledged to date.<ref>Meo, Nick. [https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8590077/Libya-Nato-deny-Gaddafi-troops-shot-down-unmanned-drone.html "Libya: Nato deny Gaddafi troops shot down unmanned drone".] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925174630/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8590077/Libya-Nato-deny-Gaddafi-troops-shot-down-unmanned-drone.html |date=25 September 2015}} ''The Telegraph'', 21 June 2011.</ref><ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article2123694.ece "NATO loses contact with drone chopper over Libya."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110623131655/http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article2123694.ece |date=23 June 2011}} ''The Hindu'', 21 June 2011.</ref> On 8 July 2011, the MoD released information on the first month of Apache combat operations over Libya; noting that Apaches had engaged targets within Libya on 39 occasions.<ref>{{cite web |first = Craig |last = Hoyle |url = http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/07/08/359298/libya-british-army-details-apaches-success.html |title = Libya: British Army details Apache's success |work = Flight International |date = 8 July 2011 |access-date = 10 July 2011 |archive-date = 11 July 2011 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110711120702/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/07/08/359298/libya-british-army-details-apaches-success.html |url-status = live}}</ref> Apache operations over Libya have been heavily influenced and supported by NATO reconnaissance flights and intelligence missions; information is continually relayed to update target information, assess the threat of Surface to Air missiles (SAM), and the presence of civilians, enabling real time changes to mission profiles.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.defpro.com/news/details/25788/?SID=235dc459d121ae7b9803ee4456e26fea |archive-url = https://archive.today/20120729063625/http://www.defpro.com/news/details/25788/?SID=235dc459d121ae7b9803ee4456e26fea |url-status = dead |archive-date = 29 July 2012 |title = UK Defence Official Sees Good Progress in Libya Operations |publisher = defpro.com |date = 27 June 2011}}</ref> On 6 August, Apaches struck a military communications facility and troops at Al Watiyah.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/libya-video/8695936/British-Apache-helicopters-strike-Libya-targets.html |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110812072644/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/libya-video/8695936/British-Apache-helicopters-strike-Libya-targets.html |url-status = dead |archive-date = 12 August 2011 |title = British Apache helicopters strike Libya targets |work = The Telegraph |date = 11 August 2011}}</ref> Both the Apache and the [[Eurofighter Typhoon|Typhoon]] were withdrawn from Libyan operations in September 2011 as operational demands decreased.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defencemanagement.com/news_story.asp?id=17553 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130121080721/http://www.defencemanagement.com/news_story.asp?id=17553 |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 January 2013 |title=Typhoon and Apache return from Libya |publisher=defencemanagement.com |date=27 September 2011}}</ref>