<p>The new AH-64E Apache helicopters will allow UK and US forces to work together more closely in training and on operations. As we can take advantage of existing US production arrangements and economies of scale, replacing our fleet with the off-the-shelf standard AH-64E also represents best value for money for the UK taxpayer.</p><p>There are significant opportunities for UK industry involvement in the Apache AH-64E programme. At least five UK companies have so far been successful in securing sub-contracts from Boeing, representing around 5% by value of the global Apache programme. Support of the new helicopters will also bring further opportunities for UK industry; we anticipate the nature and scale of UK employment will be broadly similar to that required to support the current Apache AH Mk1 fleet.</p>