Franklin Mint Armour Collection B11A191
AH-64D Longbow Apache Diecast Model
US Army
| 1:48 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Bell AH-64D Longbow Apache | | 13.25" | | 11" |
This is a precision-engineered scale model from The Franklin Mint, officially authorized by Boeing. This model has been carefully crafted, hand-painted and hand-finished, featuring a level of detail far and above that of the Franklin Mint's regular Armour Collection series. This model features a removable canopy and engine covers, moveable PNVS (Pilot Night Vision Sensor) and TADS (Target Acquisition Designation Sight), free-spinning metal main and tail rotors and sturdy display stand.
The first shots fired in the Gulf War came not from an aircraft of the USAF, but from an army helicopter, the AH-64 Apache. The Apache's performance in raking through the defenses of the Iraqi military garnered immediate attention, but also served as a valuable lesson in modern warfare. The Gulf War taught the military that today's battlefields were controlled by information resources and intelligence. Apaches at this time were analog machines in an increasingly digital age. Immediate access to information was necessary for combat readiness, but one in flight, the Apaches were not capable of contributing to the exchange of information between aircraft. Victory in a digital war depends on the gathering and control of information, and the Apache, for all its valuable assets, failed on this front. Modifications resulted in the AH-64D Apache Longbow. Improvements transformed the AH-64 Apache into an electronic warrior, one which could contribute and implement battlefield data as it unfolded in real-time in order to maintain command. The Longbow was outfitted with highly sophisticated technology to provide superior communications and sensors. The crew of two now would be able to see farther and more clearly. They would have real-time communications with other sources of intelligence, and an improved display of information provided the crew with a better view of the battlefield. These next generation Apaches had superior weapons systems, giving combat pilots a distinct advantage with the advanced Longbow fire control radar, AGM-114D Longbow Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, and an advanced avionics suite. They soar above predecessors with an ability to initiate the radar scan, detect and classify a maximum of 256 targets, and prioritize the 16 most dangerous targets, transmit the information to other aircraft, and attack with heightened target accuracy. AH-64D Apache Longbows have greater weapons accuracy at longer ranges, and the ability to fight at night and in virtually any weather. By 2010, all US Army Apaches are to be upgraded to AH-64D Longbow standards. It is considered to be the most lethal, durable, deployable multi-mission combat helicopter in the world. Its advanced communications and combat capabilities give US armed forces a formidable upper hand on the 21st century battlefield.
From its Hellfire missiles to its Target Acquisition Designation Sight, this model Apache is a work of precision artistry and on you will admire for many years to come.
The Franklin Mint "Armour Collection" presents diecast detailed, ready-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft. Armour Collection diecast airplanes from The Franklin Mint require no glueing or painting. Each model is an instant display piece or diorama centerpiece straight from the box. Made from diecast metal and plastic components, the die cast airplanes in the Franklin Mint's Armour Collection are 100% true to scale. Franklin Mint "Armour Collection" diecast airplanes feature:
- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Detailed cockpit interiors.
- No pilot figures.
- Sturdy fixed metal landing gear for static display.
- Authentic fixed ordnance loads.
- Accurately detailed underside.
[See more Franklin Mint Armour Collection products]Designed to meet a US Army requirement for an advanced attack helicopter, the AH-64 was first flown on September 30th, 1975.[See more Bell AH-64D Longbow Apache products] 
