pilotage capabilities day or night in adverse weather and obscure conditions. In addition, the Apache offers enhanced manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) capability for real-time video streaming from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and transmission to ground systems. This enables non-line-of-sight communications, unprecedented situational awareness and next-level maneuverability. Link 16 is a key capability for unrivalled interoperability and information sharing on the battlefield – creating a joint common operating picture with other aircraft and sensors. Another key differentiator for the Apache is a mast-mounted Fire Control Radar (FCR) to locate hostile air defense units, and reduce exposure times for target acquisition and payload delivery in any environment, including maritime operations. Altogether, the Apache’s modernizations and enhancements bring unmatched capability to the battlefield. MUM-T is a critical capability. Which UAVs are certified to work in a MUM-T manner with the AH-64? Hostetter: Apaches have been equipped with the critical MUM-T capability for more than a decade – providing two-way, high-bandwidth communication between the Apache and UAVs. This combat-proven Apache capability increases survivability by allowing for early detection and identification of threats on the battlefield. Apache has teamed Gray Eagle and Shadow, as well as Scan Eagle during demonstration, and is capable of teaming with others. It’s also important to emphasize that Apache is the only attack or reconnaissance helicopter with MUM-T capabilities. Beyond introduction of v6 capabilities, what else is being done in terms of modernization to the AH-64 Apache? Hostetter: The enduring goal of AH-64 modernization is to ensure the Apache’s continued dominance on a perpetually evolving battlefield for decades to come. We’ll accomplish that by embracing and integrating the future technology and capabilities needed to execute successful attack and reconnaissance missions in increasingly connected and contested joint all-domain/multi-domain environments. Students of Aldous Huxley – who found ‘zeitgeist’ to be “a dismal animal,” choosing the word as a component of the headline may seem counterintuitive. One of the most striking things about ILA 2022 – the Berlin Airshow at Berlin Brandenburg Airport in June – however, was the extent to which the show reflected the ‘spirit of the times’ – on multiple levels. MilTech looks back in wonder at a show that – while not of the size of, say, a Paris or Farnborough – has an enduring legacy and is a strong indicator of the health and vibrancy of one of the world’s leading high-tech economies. One of the enduring themes of ILA 2022 was the heat. Strong and bright – reflecting the spirit of exhibitors and visitors alike – but wearing after a while, though it fell short of being oppressive. The temptation to weather the weather by resorting to good German beer having been put aside, (temporarily), the Mönch editorial producing three editions of the ILA Show Daily on site focused on the new, the innovative and the interesting – from a German and an international perspective. Although the number of stories forthcoming was considerable, choosing just two interviews enables us to highlight the importance of Germany in the world of defence and security. An interview with one of the world’s largest defence and aerospace companies – Boeing – proves the importance of the German market in its own right, while a considered analysis of the problem of funding national security and shouldering the burden of collective defence highlights the conundrum that Germany, among others, has faced for years – and places in perspective the truly revolutionary nature of the nation’s volte-face in attitude as a direct result of the invasion of Ukraine. Boeing’s AH-64 Apache: A Proven Game Changer The Boeing AH-64 Apache is the primary attack helicopter for the US Army and 17 partner nations, including NATO allies such as the United Kingdom, Netherlands and Greece. The US Army fleet of Apaches has amassed more than 1.3 million combat hours and 4.9 million total flight hours in support of operations worldwide, including in Poland and Eastern Europe in combined exercises and operations – making it a proven game changer that supports interoperability and regional security in Europe. While the Apache was originally designed as a heavy attack helicopter, operations over the last two decades have seen it upgraded and modernised to meet reconnaissance demands. The AH-64E Apache version 6, or v6 – through a combination of software and hardware updates – has further improved the Apache’s capabilities, making it an optimized scout and weapons system. Show Daily spoke with Michael Hostetter, VP of Boeing Defense, Space & Security in Germany. The AH-64 Apache has been flying since the 1970s. Why is it still the most relevant attack helicopter in the world? Hostetter: In today’s increasingly complex global security environment, providing pilots with the very best in terms of performance, connectivity and interoperability with allies is more important than ever. That’s why the Apache is the attack aircraft of choice for the US Army and 17 partner nations around the globe. By combining a battle-tested design with transformational technologies, the Apache delivers an unmatched mix of versatility, affordability and superior capabilities. Some of these superior capabilities include a Modernized Target Acquisition Destination System (M-TADS) and Pilot Night Vision Sensor (PNVS) for long-range precision engagement and Special Feature MT 4/2022 · 57 Tim Mahon is Editor-in-Chief of MilTech. Tim Mahon Berlin Zeitgeist – An ILA 2022 Retrospective Aggression incarnate, the Apache showcased its capabilities at ILA 2022. (Photo: Boeing)
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM5Mjg=