US Army’s AH-64E Apache showcases ability to counter UAS
The US Army has showcased the capabilities of AH-64E Apache helicopters as a counter-uncrewed aircraft systems (c-UAS) platform.
The aircraft successfully demonstrated its ability to identify, pursue, and neutralise UASs during an exercise.
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The demonstration was a collaborative effort involving Program Manager Apache, Program Manager Tactical Aviation and Ground Munitions, and the JPEO Armaments and Ammunition team, which is responsible for developing 30mm proximity-fused ammunition, with support from the South Carolina Army National Guard.
During the exercise, Apache crews engaged targets using the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM), various HELLFIRE missiles, Hydra-70 Guided Rockets equipped with Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guidance sections, 30mm ammunition.
The missile systems achieved direct hits on their intended targets, with Hydra-70 rockets equipped with APKWS successfully striking three out of four targets, the US Army said.
The 30mm ammunition also neutralised the aerial threats.
The Army said that each munition tested offers different considerations in terms of range, potential collateral damage, and rate of engagement, allowing commanders to tailor their approach to the specifics of the mission at hand.
Chief warrant officer 5 Daniel York said: “This was about validating our capabilities and ensuring the Apache remains a vital asset in modern combat scenarios. We demonstrated that the Apache continues to be relevant and effective in the face of evolving UAS threats.”
Developed by Boeing, AH-64E helicopter is an advanced configuration of the Apache and is said to be ready for multi-domain operations.
These helicopters are adept at detecting targets that may be concealed from stationary detection systems and can engage adversaries across the full spectrum of the battlespace.
Hellfire and JAGM product manager lieutenant colonel Cusack said: “The limiting factor remains how much the Army can invest into aircrew training and munition integration to reduce crew workload. Apache Aircrews will find a way to provide decision space and early warning for ground commanders and defeat the threats that attempt to disrupt US Military operations.”
