How useful would a navalized Apache able to carry Harpoon missiles have been in the 1980s?
Short answerIt could give amphibious ships their own anti-ship reach and additional attack support, though implementing the concept would be difficult.
NotesA navalized Apache could provide a common attack helicopter for shipboard use and replace Marine Corps Cobras in the proposed fleet. British interest is linked to operating such aircraft from ships such as HMS Ocean. From an amphibious ship, an Apache carrying Harpoon could search across the radar horizon and engage small enemy combatants far enough away to protect the landing force. That would reduce dependence on carrier aircraft arriving to deal with each threat. Extra helicopters would provide more shooters against ships and land targets, although implementing the concept is described as difficult.