US Army Optimizes Apache Helicopter with Spike NLOS Missile in Iraq

A US Army AH-64 Apache recently flew with the Spike NLOS missile in Iraq, marking significant progress in operational tests. This missile enhances combat capabilities by providing greater range and precision than existing munitions. The integration of the Spike missile aims to support the US Army’s operations against the Islamic State and improve overall aviation combat readiness.

Recently, a US Army AH-64 Apache helicopter conducted a flight with the Spike NLOS (Non Line-of-Sight) missile at Erbil Air Base, Iraq. This flight was part of operational tests for the Rafael missile with the attack rotorcraft from the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. This marked the first time a training (inert) Spike missile was utilized by a conventional army unit during such tests.

Previously, the Spike missile had undergone testing at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona, Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, and within Germany. The flight represents a crucial step toward the operational deployment of the missile in combat scenarios. Col. Tyler Partridge, Commander of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, remarked that their efforts aim to enhance Army aviation integration in combined operational contexts.

Col. Partridge stated, “Operational Testing Spike NLOS munitions with the AH-64E V6 onboard systems helps us build readiness for real-world employment and ultimately provide more combat power and capability to the ground force.” The 101st is currently preparing to utilize the missile in support of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, which targets the Islamic State.

The Spike missile significantly enhances capabilities, offering more than four times the range of the Hellfire missile, reaching 32 kilometers (20 miles). Additionally, the AH-64 Apache can carry AGM-114 Hellfire missiles with a range of 7 to 11 kilometers (4 to 7 miles) and AGM-179 Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles with ranges of 8 to 16 kilometers (5 to 10 miles).

The Spike features multi-purpose warheads effective against various targets, including anti-tank, anti-structure, anti-ship, and anti-personnel. Equipped with an electro-optical/infrared seeker and a wireless data link, it allows operators to obtain real-time video imagery and maintain control throughout the flight, enabling mid-flight retargeting and mission-abortion.

In November 2022, the US Army selected Spike NLOS as part of the Interim-Long Range Precision Munition (I-LRPM) program, assessing long-range precision munitions. Spike was chosen through a competitive assessment involving multiple unnamed competitors, deemed sensitive by the Army spokesperson, as reported by Defense News.

The recent flight of the Apache helicopter with the Spike NLOS missile marks a significant advance in the operational capabilities of the US Army. By integrating this long-range precision munition, the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade enhances its readiness and firepower in ongoing operations against the Islamic State, reaffirming the commitment to maximizing combat capabilities in modern warfare.

Original Source: thedefensepost.com