Longbow (Red Alert 1)

The was the primary attack helicopter of the Allied Forces during the Great World War II, in which it served as an anti-tank gunship.

Background
During the World War II it was equipped with heavy armor, sophisticated targeting equipment and several missile launchers. Its powerful missiles and great speed enabled it to hunt enemy tanks, particularly fragile V-2 missile launchers. Other units, such as heavy tanks, were equally vulnerable because of their lack of anti-aircraft armament.

Legacy With Allied forces expanding their Air force by the end of the war, the longbow's role was taken by the more mobile Harrier, and the only helicopter fielded by the Allies during GWWII was the Nighthawk Transport.

In-game
Apaches did not have sufficient armor to survive prolonged anti-aircraft fire, and thus commanders were forced to deploy them carefully. However, once deployed, the Apaches prove very effective against armored targets.

The downside to the powerful missiles is that the Apache can only carry 10, and must reload at an intact Helipad before re-engaging the foe.

Being an air unit, Apaches cannot effectively scout terrain.

The Apache's heavy armor meant that they could withstand at least a few volleys of missiles, and could engage Mammoth Tanks for limited durations.