Live-fire trials clear way for Spike NLOS missile integration with latest Apache helicopter
The AH-64E V6 model of the Apache has been operational with the US Army since 2021. (Photo: US Army)
Spike NLOS missiles fired from an AH-64E V6 attack helicopter successfully hit stationary targets in a live-fire test at Yuma Proving Ground.
Lockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control's Precision Strike team has successfully fired two Rafael Spike NLOS all-up rounds (AURs) from the Boeing AH-64E V6 Apache attack helicopter. The trials were carried out on 26 January at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona.
The live fire event verifies the Spike NLOS Long Range Precision Munitions Directed Requirement (LRPM DR) system’s integration onto the Apache platform and allows it to enter qualification testing.
'The successful integration of Spike NLOS on the Apache platform demonstrates Lockheed Martin's continued commitment to 21st century security solutions that help our customers complete their missions,' said Tom Bargnesi, programme management senior manager of the Precision Strike team. 'The system’s expansion onto additional platforms, along with its mission-focused defence capabilities, ensures it will help the US Army stay ahead of ready in an ever-evolving threat environment.'
Related Articles
Airbus H145M successfully fires Spike ER2 missile
US Army orders more EO fire control system components for Apache attack helos
US F-15EX successfully tests new missile stations
The demonstration saw two Spike NLOS AURs fired from an AH-64 at stationary targets in separate scenarios.
Spike NLOS system will next begin testing to qualify the design for airworthiness release (AWR). Once AWR is awarded, the system is scheduled be fielded on the US Army’s AH-64E V6 fleet by September 2024.
According to Shephard Defence Insight,, the US Army plans to acquire 791 AH-64Es (a combination of new and remanufactured aircraft) to fulfil its attack helicopter requirements. The service intends to sustain the Apache fleet through the year 2040.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Will the Eurofighter Typhoon’s fight for new markets prevail?]()
Will the Eurofighter Typhoon’s fight for new markets prevail?
Poland and Turkey are often cited as potential fresh export opportunities for the Eurofighter Typhoon. But are the sales prospects realistic and what factors could tip the balance?
-
![India revives Netra Mk-II AWACS after Airbus cost dispute]()
India revives Netra Mk-II AWACS after Airbus cost dispute
India has cleared higher retrofit costs for six ageing Airbus A321s to be converted into Netra Mk-II airborne surveillance platforms, marking progress in a long-delayed AWACS programme but raising questions over lifespan and operational value.
-
![USAF to use augmented reality technology in F-16 cockpit]()
USAF to use augmented reality technology in F-16 cockpit
The US Air Force awarded Red6 a contract to install its ATARS software into the aircraft to provide new training solutions, following successful integrations in the T-38 Talon and MC-130.
-
![Nuclear “Manhattan Project-type endeavour” plausible for AI advancement, says UK Chief of Defence Staff]()
Nuclear “Manhattan Project-type endeavour” plausible for AI advancement, says UK Chief of Defence Staff
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin also urged caution over a “drone-tastic” way of thinking when it comes to their use alongside traditional air and underwater domain platforms.
