Army Tests Apache Helicopter for Counter UAS

Boeing AH-64E demonstrates the ability to defeat drones using multiple armaments.

Jack Daleo

Tuesday, September 02, 2025 at 02:48 PM ET

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Jack Daleo

Army personnel demonstrated the ability to take down drones using Boeing’s AH-64E Apache helicopter. [Courtesy: Boeing]

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Army has successfully demonstrated that AH-64E Apache helicopters can effectively neutralize enemy drones using various munitions, providing a flexible, persistent, and cost-effective mobile counter-UAS (C-UAS) solution.
This C-UAS capability leverages the modern AH-64E v6 Apache, with ongoing modernization efforts by Boeing to enhance software, systems, and reduce pilot workload for future variants and existing models.
Despite these advancements and new capabilities, the Apache program faces scrutiny regarding its long-term combat relevance and has been linked to a recent increase in Army aviation mishaps, attributed partly to training issues and mechanical failures.

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As the military ramps up its investment in counter uncrewed aircraft systems (C-UAS) technology, the U.S. Army believes it has developed the ability to take down enemy drones using attack helicopters.

During a series of demonstrations conducted in partnership with the South Carolina Army National Guard, the branch neutralized UAS using a variety of munitions launched from Boeing AH-64E Apache helicopters. The campaign follows a series of 2024 exercises in Saudi Arabia during which Apaches took down UAS with Hellfire missiles.