Israel shifts back to the Apache as UAV switch fails
The AH-64E, the current configuration of Boeing’s Apache attack helicopter, will replace the IAF’s AH-64As and AH-64Ds. (Photo: Boeing)
The IAF has equipped its Apache helicopter fleet with Rafael’s Spike NLOS missile.
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has been attempting to attain early delivery of 40 US-made Boeing AH-64E Apache combat helicopters. The development follows the failure of an attempt to prove that unmanned armed systems could be a fully capable replacement for combat helicopters.
Before the country’s war in Gaza began on 7 October 2023, the IAF had developed a service plan in which it intended to place more armed UAVs into service and gradually phase out the force’s existing fleet of AH-64As (designated Peten) and AH-64Ds (Saraf).
As the war evolved, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) found that fighting in
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![FIA 2026: Interest grows in C-390 transport as Czech Republic takes first delivery]()
FIA 2026: Interest grows in C-390 transport as Czech Republic takes first delivery
The Czech Air Force took delivery of its first of two Embraer KC-390 transport aircraft ahead of Farnborough 2026, becoming the fourth operator of the type.
-
![FIA 2026: Raytheon UK offers Red Kite as ‘high-low mix’ weapon for RAF]()
FIA 2026: Raytheon UK offers Red Kite as ‘high-low mix’ weapon for RAF
Raytheon UK has unveiled Red Kite, a sovereign precision weapon built on the Stormbreaker airframe, betting on digital engineering to deliver affordable stockpile mass for the Royal Air Force.
-
![US Navy to start the next phase of E-2D Block II modernisation in FY2028]()
US Navy to start the next phase of E-2D Block II modernisation in FY2028
NAVAIR plans to award a five-year retrofit contract to a broader transition of the carrier-based airborne early warning fleet to the AHE configuration.
-
![GCAP remains bright spot in UK rearmament efforts as international prospects widen]()
GCAP remains bright spot in UK rearmament efforts as international prospects widen
Funding for the programme is secure – for now – while future opportunities to join Japan, Italy and the UK could tempt other Western partners to join the joint fighter development project.
-
![How the evolving MQ-9B is opening new markets for GA-ASI]()
How the evolving MQ-9B is opening new markets for GA-ASI
With $12 billion in deals already signed and several major procurements on the horizon, the evolution of GA-ASI’s MQ-9B could lead to additional deals for the popular aircraft.
-
![FIA 2026: Gripen marks operational milestone as Ukraine deal moves forward]()
FIA 2026: Gripen marks operational milestone as Ukraine deal moves forward
At the end of June, Ukraine and Sweden signed a landmark deal which calls for a first batch of used Gripen C/Ds to be delivered from 2027, followed by the more advanced Gripen E.
