US Army Tests Spike Missile with Apache Helicopter in Iraq

The US Army’s AH-64 Apache has successfully flown with the Spike NLOS missile during operational tests in Iraq. This marks the first use of the missile with a conventional army unit, aimed at enhancing combat capabilities in the fight against the Islamic State.

A recent demonstration highlighted the capabilities of the US Army’s AH-64 Apache helicopter, which flew with the Spike NLOS (Non Line-of-Sight) missile at Erbil Air Base in Iraq. This flight represented a significant step towards operational testing of the missile by the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, marking the first use of an inert Spike missile with a conventional army unit. Prior testing of the Spike missile had occurred at various military bases, including Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona and Eglin Air Force Base in Florida.

The integration of the Spike NLOS missile with the Apache helicopter enhances the combat capabilities of the US Army, especially in the current mission against the Islamic State. This milestone demonstrates the Army’s commitment to improving operational readiness and effective integration of advanced munitions in combat scenarios. The choice of Spike for the I-LRPM program further underscores its strategic importance in enhancing long-range precision strike capabilities.

Original Source: thedefensepost.com