The initial study for a special operations escort helicopter started in 1989 with project SOPHE (Special OPerations Helo Escort), but was cancelled in 1990 after the end of the Cold War. It wouldn't be until after the investigation report into the Mogadishu raid ( where insufficient air support was clearly defined), that the Army would seriously consider a dedicated SOA escort helicopter. A new project was started in January of 1995.

It was decided from the outset that the AH-64 would be modified for the role of long-range escort, MDDs Hughes division was contracted to convert one airframe to MH-64 spec. for testing. Modifications include Longbow mast radar, removable IFR probe, podded TFR, 'wet' wing with new wingtip & overwing stations, podded ECM & Countermeasures 25mm 'Bushmaster' cannon replacing the 30mm chaingun, HLDs added to the engine pods and various aerials. After evaluation, the Army placed an order for 9 more intermediate MH-64Bs and authorized development for the MH-64C.

Bud