The US Army recently conducted an operational test flight of the AH-64 Apache helicopter armed with the Spike NLOS missile at Erbil Air Base, Iraq. This marks the first use of the Spike missile by a conventional army unit, aimed at enhancing combat readiness in the fight against Islamic State. The Spike offers significant range advantages over traditional missiles and is part of the Army’s I-LRPM program.
Recently, a US Army AH-64 Apache helicopter successfully flew with the Spike NLOS (Non-Line-of-Sight) missile at Erbil Air Base in Iraq. This flight was part of operational tests conducted by the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. Notably, it was the first time a training (inert) version of the Spike missile was utilized with this aircraft operated by a conventional army unit, following previous tests at various sites including Yuma Proving Ground and Eglin Air Force Base.
The flight represented a crucial step toward the operational integration of the missile system on the Apache in combat scenarios. Colonel Tyler Partridge, commander of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, stated, “The 101 Combat Aviation Brigade continues to find opportunities to transform in contact and advance Army aviation integration in the combined arms fight.” He further emphasized the importance of operational testing, which enhances readiness for real-world scenarios.
The 101st is poised to utilize the Spike missile during their current mission supporting the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, aimed at combating the Islamic State group. This missile boasts significantly enhanced capabilities, offering over four times the operating range of the AGM-114 Hellfire missile, reaching distances of up to 32 kilometers (20 miles).
In addition to the Spike, the AH-64 Apache is equipped with AGM-114 Hellfire and AGM-179 Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles, which have ranges of 7 to 11 kilometers (4 to 7 miles) and 8 to 16 kilometers (5 to 10 miles), respectively. The Spike missile features advanced technology, including an electro-optical/infrared sensor, multi-purpose warheads, and real-time video capabilities, allowing for mid-flight retargeting and mission abort functionality.
Furthermore, the US Army has included the Spike missile in the Interim-Long Range Precision Munition (I-LRPM) program to evaluate the features of long-range precision munitions. Following a competitive evaluation in November 2022, the Spike missile was selected over various undisclosed competitors. The identities of these competitors were not disclosed to protect sensitive information.
In conclusion, the flight of the US Army AH-64 Apache equipped with the Spike NLOS missile marks a significant advancement in military capabilities. The integration of this missile is aimed at enhancing the operational readiness of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade in combat efforts against Islamic State forces. With marked improvements in range and targeting accuracy, the Spike missile serves as a key asset in modern warfare strategies.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
