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 successfully demonstrated that AH-64E Apache attack helicopters can effectively neutralize enemy drones using various munitions, providing a mobile and flexible counter-UAS solution.
This new capability offers a cost-effective and adaptable platform to address gaps in existing ground-based C-UAS systems, combating the rising threat of battlefield drones.
The successful C-UAS demonstration could bolster the Apache program, which has faced recent scrutiny regarding its future role and an increase in aviation accident rates.
Ongoing modernization efforts for the AH-64E, including future Version 6.5 upgrades, aim to enhance capabilities, reduce pilot workload, and improve the helicopter's longevity and affordability.

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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.