Footage from the first ever firings of a Brimstone 2 missile from an Apache AH-64E.
Fired from a M299 launcher, and using a telemetry missile with no warhead, this proves Brimstone can be integrated on to an Apache. The highly regarded Brimstone precision is clearly seen.
A Boeing flight test engineer who witnessed the trials said:
“The mmW autonomous shot from a moving and banking platform against an off-axis target with the missile hitting the tank’s turret ring was the most aggressive shot I have ever seen in my 30 years of the Apache programme.”
A spokesperson for the MoD said at the time:
“During June, MBDA is being funded by MoD to carry out risk reduction/proof of concept firings of Brimstone off an AH64E using the Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight and fire-control radar. These firings support MBDA’s proposed missile solution for the UK buy of AH64E — Future Attack Helicopter Weapon (FAHW) — an enhanced Brimstone specifically designed to meet the British Army’s attack helicopter needs.”
Brimstone 2 will have an improved seeker, a more modular design and improvements to airframe and software for “an overall increase in performance with improvements in range and engagement footprint” including a “more than 200% increase” in maximum range.
In 2015, the United Kingdom requested the re-manufacture of fifty WAH-64 Apache helicopters to AH-64E Apache Guardian standard and this was quickly approved by the United States. It is understood that Boeing is offering the helicopters at a lower price by tacking them on to the end of a larger Apache order from the US military.
The AH-64E variant features improved digital connectivity over previous models, the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System, more powerful T700-GE-701D engines with upgraded transmission to accommodate more power, capability to control unmanned aerial vehicle, full IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) capability, improved landing gear and additional upgrades.
