AH-64E would be great, especially if the UK go for it too and certify a marinised configuration. The only way I can see the Tiger being replaced is if there is a coherent economical alternative that brings something to the show that Tiger either can't, or modifying it to deliver would exceed the commonwealths risk appetite. For example the US has trialled Apaches as drone control nodes, both the Apache and Zulu are FMS with the associated logistics andTLS benefits, the core engine is common to the Romeo.Interesting. Would this not be complicated by our unwillingness to field DU armour? Presumably US models will have it, but I imagine there may be some additional expense to ours being delivered without it?
On a side note, the rumblings about an early Tiger replacement have got me wondering if the AH64E might get a look in? My understanding is that the Apache lost out originally due to expense weighed against perceived deficits in the recon role, along with marinisation issues. Now, however, it looks like the US is moving towards making their Apaches much more active in the ARH role, mainly by networking with unmanned systems. Given this and the fact that I could have sworn the E model involves some degree of "marinisation", I would have thought it should beat out the Viper hands down (at least capability wise)?
If, and this is a big if, the ADF acquires additional utility / assault helicopters and they are either Mike model Blackhawks, Sierras or even Yankees then this could make a coordinated buy of Echos or Zulus to replace Tiger even more attractive. The main thing will be taking a holistic view across fleets and services to find the best long term option.