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​​​​The British Army’s newest Apache helicopter was blown over in high winds as Storm Henk hit southern Britain.

The Apache AH-64E attack helicopter, declared “ready for front line duty” by the Army in October, was knocked onto its side while stationary at the Army Aviation Centre in Middle Wallop, Hampshire.

It is understood no one was injured during the incident, and that all other aircraft remained undamaged. An Army ambulance was pictured at the scene earlier on Tuesday afternoon.

A defence source told The Telegraph it is believed to have been the first time that an Apache has been blown over, adding: “Apaches aren’t particularly prone to it, but if the wind speed is high enough it can obviously happen.”

Apaches are considered robust aircraft proven to operate from the decks of ships, and are typically able to withstand strong winds.

However, the source said it was possible for “any aircraft” to be blown over, explaining: “They’ve got lifting surfaces for a reason, but it does mean they can be vulnerable to high winds.”

An Army spokesman said: “We are aware of an incident at Army Aviation Centre Middle Wallop, where an Apache helicopter has been destabilised by very high winds.

“Airfield staff responded rapidly to secure the aircraft and specialist recovery is currently being coordinated. We will not comment further until a full assessment has been made.”

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Ft. Hood Storm Damage $600 Million

L.A. TIMES ARCHIVES | MAY 20, 1989 12 AM PT | FROM ASSOCIATED PRESS
Storm damage to helicopters and buildings at the Army’s Ft. Hood outside Killeen, Tex., will cost at least $600 million to repair, the service said Friday. The Army said it had so far pegged last week’s storm damage to almost 200 helicopters at $585 million. Damage to buildings and other facilities was put at $15 million. Lt. Col. John Chapla, an Army spokesman, said exact repair figures are not available.

The storm, packing heavy rain and winds of 95 m.p.h., ravaged the area May 13. Although no one was killed, the storm forced 25 military families from their quarters and damaged the helicopters and at least 20% of the fort’s buildings. The damage occurred even though the Army said about half of the helicopters had been placed inside hangars as the storm approached and the remainder were tied down. Especially hard hit was the new fleet of AH-64 Apache attack helicopters. About 100 of the fort’s 150 Apaches were reported damaged, forcing the base to downgrade its state of aviation readiness.

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