FORT DRUM, N.Y. — The U.S. Army's commitment to modernization takes a step forward as the 10th Combat Aviation Brigade of the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) began the transition to the new AH-64E Version 6 Apache attack helicopter. This upgrade, part of the Army Transformation Initiative, directly enhances the 10th CAB's lethality and survivability, ensuring the unit remains a dominant force on the future battlefield. This upgraded aircraft replaces the brigade’s long-serving AH-64D Apache models, providing a critical technological leap that aligns the 10th CAB with the Army’s strategic vision of multi-domain operations.
The AH-64Ev6 is not merely an incremental upgrade; it is a fundamental shift in focus for combat aviation. The new model features more powerful engines, composite rotor blades and more capable integration systems. These enhancements deliver improved performance, including greater lift, speed and maneuverability, which are vital for the 10th Mountain Division's mission of rapid global deployment in challenging, high-altitude environments. However, the most significant improvements are found in the helicopter's digital heart.
The AH 64E is a network-centric weapon system, equipped with advanced avionics that allow it to share data seamlessly across the battlefield. This capability is paramount to the Army's MDO concept, which requires a unified network to integrate ground, air, space and cyber capabilities. Commander of 1-10 Attack Battalion, Lt. Col. Chris Stoinoff spoke on how the helicopters enhanced networking allows the 1-10 AB to serve as a vital node in this network, providing real time intelligence and targeting data to both joint and ground forces.
“The aircraft brings more than weapons to the battlefield; it’s a flying network that can send information to friendly aircraft, ships, and our land forces,” said Stoinoff. “It extends the commander’s ability to see the battlefield and strike high-payoff targets.”
The AH-64Ev6's most revolutionary feature is its manned-unmanned teaming capability. This technology allows AH-64Ev6 pilots to directly receive video feeds and control unmanned aerial systems of the future. This capability exponentially increases the Apache’s operational reach and situational awareness, allowing the aircraft to scout for threats from a standoff distance while remaining in a covered position. This is a game-changer for reconnaissance, security and close air support missions that 1-10 AB and the 10th CAB operate.
“The AH-64Ev6 is designed to operate with UAS and communicate with other joint air assets. The aircraft allows commanders to leverage the best qualities of manned and unmanned aviation during an operation,” said Stoinoff. “In the long term, aircrews will have limitless opportunities to train with the UAS units located on Fort Drum."
This approach also allows for a flexible force structure, capable of adapting to emerging technology and integrating future advances.
“Fielding the AH-64Ev6 enables 10th CAB ongoing transformation to a “Light CAB”, meaning it will have a potent mix of attack and lift aircraft to best serve the needs of the 10th Mountain Division,” said Stoinoff.
For the 10th CAB and its subordinate units, the AH-64Ev6 acquisition is a tangible manifestation of the ATI. The initiative calls for a continuous transformation of the force to stay ahead of peer and near-peer adversaries. The 10th CAB is a force optimized for rapid deployment and combat in diverse operational environments, and the Echo model ensures its attack aviation element is fully modernized and capable of operating as part of a joint force. While the AH-64Ev6's fielding represents a significant upgrade, the Army is not complacent.
The lessons from recent conflicts have highlighted the need for robust survivability against a new generation of low-cost threats like man-portable air-defense systems and drones. In response, the Army is actively integrating advanced counter-unmanned aerial systems capabilities and demonstrating the AH-64Ev6's ability to engage these threats.
“The culture hasn’t changed...as attack aviators, we are committed to flying farther, fighting longer, and accepting more personal danger than any other unit in 10th CAB. The Echo model gives us the most advanced platform possible to accomplish our goal, and we will leverage every advantage it offers in our training,” said Stoinoff. “Ultimately, I foresee the AH-64Ev6 leading the way in 10th CAB’s ability to “See, strike, move and extend.”
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