Senator Ruben Gallego and a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced a resolution honoring the AH-64 Apache helicopter and the Arizona workers who build it. The resolution marks the aircraft’s 50 years of service in U.S. and allied missions and recognizes the Mesa workforce that manufactures it. Gallego also praised the airmen and support crews who operate and maintain the Apache, saying he’s proud of Arizona’s role in supporting national defense, according to the Senator Ruben Gallego Office.
"I'm especially proud that the AH-64 is built in Mesa, where Arizona workers manufacture this cornerstone of American aviation," Senator Gallego said, noting the commitment and sacrifice of various personnel involved with the Apache, and during his last week's visit to the Boeing plant in Mesa he engaged with the locals, praising their substantial contributions, the importance of the Apache's constant modernization was a focal point, and its crucial role in national security. As stated by the Senator Ruben Gallego Office, Arizona's position as a national leader in defense technology was henceforth solidified through its sustained production of the AH-64 Apache.
Another voice supporting the resolution is Senator Kelly who emphasized both Arizona's significant role in the construction and maintenance of the Apache and the capabilities of the aircraft itself, "Arizona workers have played a major role in building and sustaining this aircraft, and I'm proud to lead this bipartisan effort to honor both the Apache and the men and women who fly and maintain it,” as reported by the Senator Ruben Gallego Office. The Apache has indeed seen numerous upgrades since its initial introduction, evolving from the AH-64A to the current AH-64E model.
Since its first flight in 1975, the AH-64 Apache has flown over 5.2 million hours, including 1.3 million in combat. It has proven itself in missions like Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, leading 18 allied countries to use it and strengthening global security. The helicopter is still built in Arizona, supporting thousands of jobs and a large supplier network in 46 states, showing its importance to both the economy and national defense, as per the Senator Ruben Gallego Office.
