The U.S. Army ordered the grounding of hundreds of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters in October because of a potential gearbox issue linked to part design and material concerns.
Defense Minister Kuo Li-hsiung said the Ministry of National Defense has received the U.S. technical notice and that the Army’s Apaches are now grounded.
To maintain readiness, the ministry will deploy AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopters and OH-58D Kiowa Warrior reconnaissance helicopters for operational missions.
The grounding is precautionary and no specific accident has been reported; the Apaches will remain on ground standby until inspections are complete.