U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground conducts comprehensive testing of SPIKE missile from AH-64

In a series of rigorous tests spanning five days, the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) played host to the evaluation of the cutting-edge SPIKE missile, launched from the formidable AH-64 Apache attack helicopter. The trials, conducted in various scenarios, showcased the missile’s versatility and resilience across different operational conditions.

A primary responsibility of U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) is to support developmental testing to improve existing weapons systems, even on platforms considered the most lethal of their kind. A recent example of this is testing in support of an airworthiness release that will allow the Spike non-line of site missile to be integrated into the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter. Over the course of five days in December 2023, testers fired eight full-up rounds in a variety of test scenarios: day and night shots, against both moving and static targets such as a mock SA-22 and a real Dodge Dakota truck, at different distances, from hovers close up to more than 30 kilometers away.

Testers fired eight full-up rounds, simulating both day and night engagements against a diverse set of targets. The SPIKE missile demonstrated its capabilities against both moving and static objectives, including a mock SA-22 and a real Dodge Dakota truck. Distances varied, ranging from close-up hovers to targets situated over 30 kilometers away.

One of the notable features tested was the missile’s ability to intentionally lose communication link with the Apache helicopter. In multiple instances, the attack helicopter altered its altitude and even executed a 180-degree turn as the SPIKE missile homed in on its target. The deliberate disruption of the link was executed to validate the missile’s autonomous tracking capabilities. In one test, the link was restored before impact, while in another, it intentionally remained severed.

Adding another layer of sophistication, the SPIKE missile demonstrated its capability to disable the warhead mid-flight. A successful test involved the missile striking a target board with precision, validating its unique functionality. Acoustic sensors were deployed to collect sound data during the impact, contributing valuable insights into the missile’s performance.

“The flight restriction algorithm on the SPIKE is pretty robust,” remarked Cole Sutter, YPG test officer. “It has an intended and expected flight area, and when it leaves that expected flight area, it induces a roll to land within the surface danger zone.”

The expansive ranges and realistic target scenarios at YPG provided an ideal environment for aviation testers to thoroughly assess the SPIKE missile’s capabilities. The natural desert setting of Yuma significantly enhanced the realism of the tests, mirroring the diverse terrains where the Apache helicopters might be deployed.

The SPIKE missile, with its proven track record and recent successful tests, continues to demonstrate its prowess as a sophisticated and adaptable weapon system. The Yuma Proving Ground’s role in providing a dynamic testing environment underscores its significance in advancing the capabilities of the U.S. Army’s aviation arsenal.

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