Defense & Military
Poland Launches AH-64D Apache Training for Military Modernization
Poland begins AH-64D Apache training under a $300M lease, bridging to 96 AH-64E Guardians as part of NATO-aligned defense upgrades and industrial partnerships.
On July 13, 2025, the Polish Armed Forces conducted their first training flight with the AH-64D Apache attack helicopter, marking a significant milestone in the country’s military modernization efforts. This inaugural sortie, carried out by a joint Polish-American crew, represents the beginning of a broader transformation in Poland’s rotary-wing combat capabilities.
The training flight is part of a $300 million leasing agreement with the United States for eight AH-64D helicopters. These older-model Apaches serve as interim platforms to train personnel ahead of the delivery of 96 AH-64E Apache Guardians, purchased under a nearly $11 billion deal signed in 2024. Poland’s aim is not only to modernize its fleet but also to establish itself as a key NATO contributor on the alliance’s eastern flank.
Against the backdrop of regional instability following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Poland’s investment in Apache helicopters reflects a strategic pivot toward high-intensity conflict preparedness. The move also underscores Warsaw’s commitment to interoperability with U.S. and NATO forces, as well as its ambition to build domestic defense capabilities through industrial offset agreements.
Poland’s decision to acquire Apache helicopters is rooted in a broader defense modernization strategy initiated in response to heightened security threats along its eastern borders. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia in 2022 significantly altered the security landscape in Central and Eastern Europe, prompting Warsaw to overhaul its armed forces with a focus on mobility, firepower, and interoperability.
In August 2024, Poland signed a government-to-government Foreign Military Sales (FMS) agreement with the United States to procure 96 AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters. The contract, valued at approximately $11 billion, includes logistics support, training packages, and munitions. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2028 and continue through 2032, positioning Poland as the second-largest Apache operator globally, after the U.S.
To bridge the operational gap prior to the AH-64E’s arrival, Poland entered into a leasing agreement for eight AH-64D Longbow helicopters in February 2025. The first three units arrived at the 56th Air Base in Inowrocław on June 16, 2025, and were officially welcomed during a ceremony the following day. These D-models, while older, offer similar flight characteristics to the E-model, making them suitable for initial pilot and crew training.
The AH-64D training program is structured in two phases: initial flight instruction in the United States and ground operations training in Poland. Polish pilots undergo flight training at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence in Fort Novosel, Alabama, where they learn basic flight dynamics, weapons systems, and emergency procedures. Upon returning to Poland, they transition to tactical training, including formation flying, combat scenarios, and integration with ground forces.
By the end of 2025, Poland expects to have trained 20 pilots and 22 ground crew, with additional cohorts scheduled for Q4 2025 and throughout 2026. The goal is to prepare 50 pilots and 250 ground personnel by the end of 2026. The first training flight on July 13, 2025, validated the effectiveness of this approach, showcasing low-altitude maneuvers and sensor coordination capabilities. Colonel Ryan Kendall, commander of the U.S. Army’s 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, emphasized the significance of the joint effort: “This collaboration is key to building a combat credible Polish attack aviation capability through shared expertise and operational alignment.”
“This collaboration is key to building a combat credible Polish attack aviation capability through shared expertise and operational alignment.”, Col. Ryan Kendall, U.S. Army
The AH-64D Apache Longbow is powered by two General Electric T700-701C engines, each producing 1,890 shaft horsepower. It can reach speeds up to 158 knots and has a combat radius of approximately 260 nautical miles. Its armament includes a 30 mm M230 chain gun, AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, and Hydra 70 rockets, providing robust anti-armor and close air support capabilities.
One of the key features of the AH-64D is its Longbow radar system, which enables target acquisition in adverse weather and battlefield conditions. While the D-model lacks the AH-64E’s advanced networking and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) control capabilities, it remains a formidable platform for training and initial operational deployment.
The AH-64D’s operational cost is higher than the E-model, with estimates exceeding $10,000 per flight hour. However, its role is transitional, focused on preparing Polish crews for the more advanced AH-64E. Boeing has stated that the D-models are sufficient for familiarization with flight systems and maintenance procedures, thus ensuring a smoother transition when the E-models arrive.
To support the Apache program, Poland has secured offset agreements worth approximately $237 million. Boeing’s $102 million agreement with Wojskowe Zakłady Lotnicze No. 1 (WZL-1) will establish domestic maintenance facilities for the Apache airframes. GE Aerospace’s $135 million contract focuses on engine maintenance capabilities, particularly for the T700 engines used in multiple helicopter platforms, including the Apache, AW149, and Black Hawk.
These agreements aim to reduce Poland’s reliance on foreign logistical support and enhance self-sufficiency in defense maintenance. The Military University of Technology (WAT) in Warsaw is also involved, offering specialized training in avionics and engine diagnostics. Paweł Bejda, Deputy Minister of National Defence, stated, “Offset agreements bolster our economy, allowing Polish industry to service composite structures and engines.”
In the long term, these partnerships are expected to position Poland as a regional hub for Apache maintenance within NATO, supporting both domestic and allied fleets. This aligns with Poland’s broader goal of retaining a significant portion of defense spending within its own economy, fostering technological development and job creation.
Poland’s Apache acquisition is not just about hardware, it’s a strategic move to enhance NATO’s eastern flank. With defense spending reaching 4.12% of GDP in 2025, Poland leads all NATO members in terms of investment relative to economic output. The Apache program complements other U.S.-supplied systems such as Abrams tanks and HIMARS rocket artillery, forming an integrated deterrence posture. The U.S. V Corps has launched the “Polish Apache Initiative,” which includes joint exercises, command and control integration, and electronic warfare training. These efforts aim to ensure seamless coordination during multinational operations, a critical capability given Poland’s frontline position bordering Ukraine and Belarus.
While the U.S. Army is shifting focus toward unmanned systems and drone swarms, Poland remains committed to manned attack aviation. Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz has acknowledged the importance of unmanned systems but emphasized that Apaches will serve as the backbone of Poland’s immediate combat aviation strategy.
The first training flight of the AH-64D Apache in Poland marks the beginning of a transformative period in the nation’s defense strategy. By leveraging leased D-model helicopters, Poland is accelerating its path toward full operational capability with the AH-64E, while simultaneously building domestic maintenance and training infrastructure.
As regional tensions persist, Poland’s investments in high-end military capabilities reflect a broader shift toward readiness and deterrence. The Apache program not only enhances national defense but also strengthens NATO’s collective security architecture. In the years ahead, Poland is poised to become a central player in regional defense, supported by a modern, interoperable, and well-trained attack aviation force.
Question: Why is Poland leasing AH-64D Apaches instead of waiting for the AH-64E?
Answer: The lease allows Poland to begin training pilots and maintenance crews immediately, ensuring readiness by the time the AH-64E helicopters are delivered starting in 2028.
Question: How many AH-64E Apaches has Poland ordered?
Answer: Poland has ordered 96 AH-64E Apache Guardians, making it the second-largest operator globally after the United States. Question: What are the main differences between the AH-64D and AH-64E?
Answer: The AH-64E features more powerful engines, advanced avionics, network-centric capabilities, and UAV control interfaces, whereas the AH-64D is optimized for basic combat and training missions.
Polish Armed Forces Begin AH-64D Apache Training Flights: A Strategic Leap Forward
Background: Poland’s Military Modernization and Apache Acquisition
Training Program and Personnel Development
Technical Capabilities of the AH-64D Apache
Industrial Partnerships and Offset Agreements
Geopolitical Implications and NATO Interoperability
Conclusion
FAQ
Sources
Photo Credit: The War Zone
Defense & Military
Boeing to Modernize C-17A Fleet with MOSA Upgrades Through 2075
Boeing secures contract to upgrade C-17A avionics with Modular Open Systems Architecture, extending fleet service through 2075 with Curtiss-Wright as key subcontractor.
The Boeing Company announced on February 9, 2026, that it has received a significant contract award from the U.S. Air Force to overhaul the flight deck of the C-17A Globemaster III. The “Flight Deck Obsolescence and Technology Refresh” program aims to transition the strategic airlifter’s avionics to a Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA), ensuring the fleet remains mission-ready through 2075.
This modernization effort addresses critical component obsolescence while introducing a digital backbone capable of rapid future upgrades. By moving away from hard-wired legacy systems, the U.S. Air-Forces intends to keep the C-17 relevant in an era of contested logistics and evolving digital warfare.
According to the announcement, the core of this upgrade is the implementation of MOSA. This architecture functions similarly to a modern smartphone operating system, allowing engineers to swap out hardware or install new software applications without redesigning the entire cockpit. This “plug-and-play” capability is essential for integrating future communication links and defensive systems required for Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) operations.
The upgrade will replace legacy Multi-Function Displays (MFD) and Standby Engine Displays (SED) with high-definition “glass cockpit” screens. It also includes upgrades to the Core Integrated Processor (CIP) and Video Integrated Processor (VIP), significantly reducing crew workload and improving situational awareness.
Travis Williams, Vice President of Boeing USAF Mobility & Training Services, emphasized the long-term value of this refresh in the company’s press statement:
“By resolving avionics obsolescence and introducing MOSA, we’re preserving a proven, highly dependable, heavy airlifter and keeping it at the forefront of performance and efficiency for decades to come.”
While the February 9 announcement highlights the broader modernization framework, specific financial details reveal the scale of the commitment. A related contract for “Flight Deck Replacement” awarded to Boeing in late 2025 was valued at approximately $265 million, covering the Engineering, Manufacturing, and Development (EMD) phase.
Simultaneously, Curtiss-Wright Corporation announced it had secured a contract with a lifetime value exceeding $400 million to supply the ruggedized mission computers for the program. As a major subcontractor, Curtiss-Wright will provide the high-performance computing modules that serve as the brain of the new open architecture system. Lynn M. Bamford, Chair and CEO of Curtiss-Wright, stated regarding the partnership:
“By delivering rugged, modular mission computing technology, we are supporting the long-term readiness of the C-17, a platform essential to global logistics and mobility operations.”
The decision to extend the C-17’s service life to 2075, nearly 85 years after its first flight, highlights a critical reality in modern military aviation: airframes often outlast their electronics. The C-17 is structurally sound, but its 1990s-era avionics are becoming impossible to source.
We observe that the move to MOSA is not just about maintenance; it is a strategic pivot. By decoupling software from hardware, the USAF can update the C-17’s cyber defenses and communication nodes at the speed of software development, rather than the multi-year pace of hardware acquisition. This flexibility is vital as the C-17 transitions from a permissive-environment cargo hauler to a data node in a high-threat, connected battlespace.
The modernization program targets the entire fleet of 275 aircraft. This includes 222 aircraft operated by the U.S. Air Force and 53 aircraft flown by international partners, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, India, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, and the NATO Strategic Airlift Capability.
In addition to the avionics refresh, the fleet is undergoing efficiency improvements. Recent reports indicate the adoption of “Microvanes,” 3D-printed structures attached to the fuselage that reduce drag by approximately 1%. While seemingly small, this adjustment saves millions of gallons of fuel annually, extending the aircraft’s range for operations in the Pacific theater.
What is the timeline for the C-17 modernization? What is MOSA? Who are the primary contractors?
Boeing Secures Contract to Modernize C-17A Fleet Through 2075
The Shift to Open Architecture
Key Partners and Financials
Curtiss-Wright’s Contribution
AirPro News Analysis
Global Fleet Impact
Frequently Asked Questions
The program is designed to keep the C-17 operational through 2075. The current phase involves Engineering, Manufacturing, and Development (EMD), with fleet-wide installation to follow.
Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA) is a design standard that allows different components from different suppliers to work together seamlessly. It enables rapid upgrades and prevents “vendor lock-in” for future technology insertions.
The Boeing Company is the prime contractor. Curtiss-Wright Corporation is a key subcontractor responsible for the mission computers.Sources
Photo Credit: Boeing
Defense & Military
South Korea Grounds AH-1S Cobra Helicopters After Fatal Crash
South Korea suspends AH-1S Cobra helicopter operations following a fatal training crash amid delays in fleet replacement.
This article summarizes reporting by South China Morning Post and official statements from the South Korean military.
The South Korean military has ordered an immediate suspension of all AH-1S Cobra helicopters operations following a fatal accident on Monday morning. According to reporting by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the crash occurred in Gapyeong and resulted in the deaths of two crew members. The grounding order remains in effect pending a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the incident.
The tragedy has renewed scrutiny over the Republic of Korea Army’s aging fleet of attack helicopters, many of which have surpassed their original intended service life. Military officials confirmed that the aircraft involved was conducting training maneuvers at the time of the accident.
The crash took place at approximately 11:04 AM KST on February 9, 2026. The aircraft, an AH-1S Cobra operated by the Army’s 15th Aviation Group, went down on a riverbank in Gapyeong County, located roughly 55 kilometers northeast of Seoul.
According to military briefings, the two crew members on board, both Warrant Officers, were recovered from the wreckage in cardiac arrest. They were transported to a nearby hospital but were subsequently pronounced dead.
Preliminary reports indicate the crew was engaged in “emergency landing procedures.” In rotorcraft aviation, this typically refers to autorotation training, a high-risk maneuver where pilots simulate engine failure to glide the helicopter safely to the ground using the energy stored in the spinning rotors. While standard for pilot certification, autorotation requires precise handling, particularly during the final “flare” phase near the ground.
The AH-1S Cobra has been a staple of South Korea’s anti-tank capabilities since its introduction between 1988 and 1991. However, the fleet is widely considered obsolete by modern standards. Estimates suggest the Army still operates between 55 and 70 of these airframes.
According to defense procurement plans previously released by the government, the AH-1S fleet was scheduled for retirement by 2024. The continued operation of these helicopters in 2026 points to significant delays in the full deployment of replacement platforms, specifically the AH-64E Apache Guardian and the domestically produced KAI LAH (Light Armed Helicopter). This is not the first time the aging Cobra fleet has faced safety questions. In August 2018, the fleet was grounded after a catastrophic mechanical failure in Yongin. During that incident, a main rotor blade separated from the fuselage during takeoff, leading to a crash landing. That failure was later attributed to a defect in the rotor strap assembly, highlighting the structural fatigue inherent in airframes that have been in service for nearly four decades.
The Risks of Legacy Training Modernization Pressure
South Korea Grounds AH-1S Cobra Fleet Following Fatal Training Crash
Incident Details and Casualties
Fleet Status and Delayed Retirement
Previous Safety Concerns
AirPro News Analysis
The crash in Gapyeong underscores a critical dilemma facing modernizing militaries: the necessity of training on “high-risk” airframes while awaiting delayed replacements. Autorotation training is inherently dangerous even in modern aircraft; performing these stress-inducing maneuvers on helicopters approaching 40 years of service compounds the risk profile significantly.
We anticipate this incident will accelerate political pressure on the Ministry of National Defense to expedite the retirement of the remaining AH-1S Cobras. While South Korea has become a major exporter of advanced defense hardware, such as the K2 tank and FA-50 light combat aircraft, the domestic reliance on Vietnam-era derivative helicopters creates a stark capability gap. The tragedy may force the military to prioritize the delivery of the KAI LAH to prevent further loss of life among aircrews operating obsolete equipment.
Sources
Photo Credit: Reuters
Defense & Military
Grid Aero Raises $20M to Deploy Long-Range Autonomous Airlift
Grid Aero secures $20M Series A funding to develop the “Lifter-Lite,” a long-range autonomous aircraft for military logistics in the Indo-Pacific.
This article is based on an official press release from Grid Aero.
Grid Aero, a California-based aerospace Startups, announced on January 26, 2026, that it has raised $20 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Bison Ventures and Geodesic Capital, with participation from Stony Lonesome Group, Alumni Ventures, Ubiquity Ventures, Calibrate Ventures, and Commonweal Ventures. The capital will be used to transition the company’s “Lifter-Lite” autonomous aircraft from prototype to a fielded platform, specifically targeting military logistics challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
Unlike many entrants in the autonomous aviation sector that focus on electric propulsion, Grid Aero has developed a clean-sheet, conventional-fuel aircraft designed to address the “tyranny of distance.” By utilizing standard Jet-A fuel and a rugged fixed-wing design, the company aims to provide a heavy-lift solution capable of operating without traditional runway infrastructure.
According to the company’s announcement, the flagship “Lifter-Lite” aircraft prioritizes range and payload capacity over novel propulsion methods. The system is engineered to carry between 1,000 and 8,000 pounds of cargo, with a maximum range of up to 2,000 miles. This range capability allows for trans-oceanic flights, such as routes from Guam to Japan, which are critical for Pacific theater operations.
The aircraft utilizes a conventional turboprop engine, a strategic choice intended to ensure compatibility with existing military fuel supply chains. The design features Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities, enabling operations from dirt strips, highways, or damaged runways where standard cargo planes cannot land.
Grid Aero was founded in 2024 by CEO Arthur Dubois and CTO Chinmay Patel. Dubois previously served as Director of Engineering at Xwing and was an early engineer at Joby Aviation. Patel, who holds a PhD in Aeronautics and Astronautics from Stanford, brings experience from Zee Aero (Kitty Hawk). The leadership team emphasizes a shift away from the “electric hype” of the urban air mobility sector toward pragmatic, physics-based solutions for defense logistics.
“We are building the pickup truck of the skies, a rugged, affordable, and autonomous logistics network capable of operating in austere environments.”
, Grid Aero Mission Statement
The Investments from Geodesic Capital, a firm known for fostering U.S.-Japan collaboration, highlights the strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific. The Department of Defense (DoD) has identified logistics as a primary vulnerability in potential conflicts where traditional supply lines may be contested. Grid Aero positions its technology as an “attritable” asset, low-cost, unmanned systems that can be deployed in volume without risking human crews. The Shift to Pragmatic Propulsion
While the broader autonomous aviation market has largely chased the promise of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) technologies, Grid Aero’s successful Series A raise signals a growing investor appetite for pragmatic, mission-specific engineering. Electric propulsion currently struggles with energy density, limiting most eVTOLs to ranges under 200 miles, insufficient for the vast distances of the Pacific.
By opting for a conventional turboprop engine, Grid Aero bypasses the battery bottleneck entirely. This decision allows the “Lifter-Lite” to integrate immediately into existing defense infrastructure (using Jet-A fuel) while offering ranges that are an order of magnitude higher than its electric competitors. For military buyers, the ability to repair an aluminum airframe in the field is often more valuable than the theoretical efficiency of composite electric platforms.
What is the primary use case for Grid Aero’s aircraft?
The aircraft is designed for “contested logistics,” delivering heavy cargo (1,000–8,000 lbs) over long ranges (up to 2,000 miles) to areas without standard runways, such as islands or forward operating bases.
Why does Grid Aero use conventional fuel instead of electric power?
Conventional Jet-A fuel offers significantly higher energy density than current battery technology, enabling the long ranges required for operations in the Pacific. It also ensures compatibility with existing military logistics chains.
Who are the lead investors in this round? The Series A round was led by Bison Ventures, a deep-tech VC firm, and Geodesic Capital, which specializes in U.S.-Japan expansion and security collaboration.
Is the aircraft fully autonomous?
Yes, the system is designed for fully autonomous flight operations, allowing for “fleet-scale” management where a single operator can oversee multiple aircraft simultaneously.
Grid Aero Secures $20M Series A to Deploy Long-Range Autonomous Airlift for Contested Logistics
The “Lifter-Lite” Platform: Capabilities and Design
Leadership and Engineering Pedigree
Strategic Context: Addressing Contested Logistics
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Grid Aero
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