Apache attack helicopters to make Padang NDP dynamic display debut

14 aircraft will be involved in celebrations, including state flag and island fly-pasts

- Mike Yeo

Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) attack helicopters will be taking part in a dynamic display at the Padang for the first time at the 2024 National Day Parade (NDP).

Two AH-64D Apache helicopters will arrive over the buildings of the Downtown Core before making mock attack runs during the Total Defence 40 dynamic display segment of the parade on Aug 9.

The helicopters had previously flown such manoeuvres only at NDPs held at the now-closed Marina Bay floating platform, which presented clearer routes in and out. The Padang is located in a more built-up area and will require different routes for the aircraft.

Major Ingkiriwang Reeve, the officer commanding of the RSAF’s 120 Squadron and the lead pilot of the Apaches, said the main challenge was that they would be flying at relatively low altitudes and in close proximity to the Chinook helicopters carrying the state flag.

“With the tall buildings in (the Marina) Bay area, those have all been taken into account, in terms of our profile, flight path and aircraft parameters, such that there is always sufficient vertical and lateral separation between the two aircraft and the obstacles or buildings around us,” he said. Profile refers to the flight path and display routine.

A total of 14 aircraft will be involved in the celebrations on the day – a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, four Apache and three Chinook helicopters, and six F-16 jets.