First AH-64D Block IIs delivered

OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea, Sept. 15 (UPI) -- The U.S. Air Force says the first three upgraded AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopters have been delivered to Osan Air Base in South Korea.

The Apache helicopters, part of an order of 24 helicopters upgraded from Block I to Block II, were recently unloaded by the 731st Air Mobility Squadron and the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade from a C-17 Globemaster III heavy lift transport aircraft in South Korea.

The Block II Apaches include upgrades to digital communications systems and cockpit enhancements among other improvements including substantial advances to the helicopter's vision technologies.

"The two big changes these new helicopters have compared to the Block Is are enhanced night vision and engine upgrades," Paul Bush, an aviation analyst assigned with the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, said in a statement.

"These upgrades will increase target acquisition for the pilot, and bring a more reliable system that will reduce maintenance times and repair costs."

Following the delivery three older Block I helicopters were loaded onto the C-17 aircraft as part of an ongoing helicopter swap out until the upgrade order is complete.