JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. – The 16th Combat Aviation Brigade will hold a ceremony Thursday, 21 Feb., at 9:30 a.m., to commemorate being the first unit in the Army to field the latest version of the AH-64 Apache helicopter

The AH-64E Guardian is the latest in the Army’s sustainment and modernization effort that extends the useful life of the Apache and also provides greater aircraft performance, increased lethality, improved communications, integrated maintenance support systems, manned/unmanned teaming interoperability, and cognitive decision aiding.

The “Guardian” replaces the AH-64D “Longbow” and is the newest model of the world’s premier Attack Helicopter. The AH-64E integrates 17 new technologies into the airframe to include, next generation range, performance, maneuverability and electronics.

Since January, the 1st Battalion, 229th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion —  nicknamed the Tiger Sharks — has received eight of the “Echo” model Apaches and are scheduled to field 16 more in the coming months.

The Tiger Sharks will train extensively on the upgraded aircraft in preparation for their utilization during upcoming rotations to the National Training Center later this year. Project Managers from Redstone Arsenal, Ala., will hand over the first keys and logbook to 1-229 ARB. After the ceremony, media will have the opportunity to see the AH-64E Guardian helicopters up-close and talk to pilots, aircraft subject-matter experts and the battalion commander. Media interested in covering this event should contact the 16th CAB Public Affairs Office no later than 4 p.m. Wednesday, by calling (253) 477-4327 or e-mailing jesse.a.paulsboe.mil@mail.mil.