The British army’s newest Apache AH-64E attack helicopter has participated in its first exercise. In a press release, the British army announced that during Exercise Talon Guardian, 3 Regiment Army Air Corps traveled 1,500km over two weeks to three different locations to plan and execute attack missions and maintain the advanced helicopters.
3 Regt AAC, the first unit to use the AH-64E, which replaces the Apache Mk.1, has improved flying performance, sensors, weapons, and communication systems. The training is meant to prepare 3 Regt AAC to provide an aviation deep strike battlegroup to the British Army’s 3rd (UK) Division.
Lt. Col. Simon Wilsey, commanding officer of 3 Regt AAC, stated that Exercise Talon Guardian is a significant step forward for the AH-64E, the world’s most advanced attack helicopter. The aircraft’s new systems and capabilities are being utilized, and the lessons learned from current conflicts are being adapted to ensure relevance and survivability.
Aircrew must use the aircraft’s sensors and natural cover to counter air defense systems and low-tech threats, while ground operations involve dispersing and camouflaging positions to avoid drone observation and using long-range communication through data.
Wilsey emphasizes the importance of field craft both in the air and on the ground and that they will continue to learn to take advantage of the helicopter’s full capabilities.