TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Military helicopters from the Army 601st Aviation Brigade will be on display in Taichung over the holiday weekend, drawing crowds as part of the annual Taiwan Model Show.
The Army said an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter and a UH-60M Black Hawk utility helicopter will be exhibited at Feng Chia University’s athletic field, offering the public a rare up-close look at the aircraft, per CNA.
The display coincides with the Taiwan Model Show, a major event for hobbyists featuring around 800 models across categories including realistic replicas, fantasy creations, and military hardware.
A highlight of this year’s exhibition is the Apache helicopter, recently repainted with a shark-mouth design, tiger stripes, and a national flag on its underside. The aircraft is making its first public appearance in Taichung.
On Thursday, the helicopters conducted test flights and landing drills at the university. The Black Hawk flew in first, guiding the Apache to the field. As the aircraft landed in sequence, powerful rotor downdrafts kicked up dust across the athletic field, creating a dramatic scene for onlookers.
Both helicopters also feature slogans such as “NEW ARMY” and “NEW POWER,” underscoring the military’s emphasis on modernization and combat readiness. The display has attracted military enthusiasts eager to view the aircraft ahead of the weekend event.
Military expert Chi Tung-yun (紀東昀) told local media the AH-64E Apache, typically deployed in Taoyuan’s Longtan District, is primarily used for attack missions, including targeting armored vehicles and ground positions. He noted the helicopter’s tandem seating configuration, with the gunner in the front seat and the pilot positioned behind.
Chi said the UH-60M Black Hawk is mainly used for transport and has played a key role in disaster relief operations, including missions supporting earthquake and typhoon response efforts.
He added that helicopter operations in urban environments can be hazardous due to strong rotor downdrafts, which create turbulent airflow. Feng Chia University’s location near the former Taichung Shuinan Airport provides relatively open terrain, making it more suitable for such exercises than more densely built areas like Taipei.
The Army said the display aims to promote public awareness of its aviation capabilities while supporting the broader exhibition, which continues to draw large numbers of visitors each year.
