Polish Army’s Apache helicopter ambition faces decade-long pilot training hurdle

The Polish Army is set to face a significant training challenge as it prepares to operate 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters purchased from the US.

It will take approximately 10 years to train enough qualified pilots to fully staff the fleet, Caliber.Az reports via the Polish defence news website.

Currently, pilot training is conducted at Poland’s Military Aviation Academy, which graduates only 30 to 40 helicopter pilots each year. Since each Apache requires a two-person crew—and two crews per helicopter are necessary for operational readiness—the total demand stands at 384 trained personnel. At the current pace, achieving this level of staffing will take about a decade. To accelerate the process, the Polish Defense Ministry is exploring the introduction of an expedited two-year training program for Apache pilots and weapons operators. 

This initiative may involve training within army units equipped with the new helicopters, allowing for faster, hands-on preparation. Meanwhile, crews for the first eight Apaches are expected to receive their training abroad, likely in the US or the UK, to ensure immediate operational capability.

By Naila Huseynova