Stinger missiles successfully integrated on AH-64D Apache Longbow

Recent integration test firings of the Stinger Block I missiles produced by Raytheon Company on the AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopter resulted in nine successful launches in nine attempts.

Held at the beginning of the month, the tests at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, were designed to test the integration of the Raytheon-built Air-to-Air Launcher (ATAL) on the Longbow helicopter in various launch scenarios. Raytheon's Missile Systems business unit in Tucson, Arizona, produces the Stinger ATAL for integration on the AH-64D helicopter.

All nine Stinger missiles were successfully launched with no helicopter damage or safety problems. Eight of the missiles scored direct hits against simulated hovering helicopter targets in a clutter environment. The tests included various missile launch constraints with the Longbow helicopter in forward air speeds from hovering to 136 knots, slide slips up to 30 knots, partial power descents, pull-up manoeuvres, hovering petal turns, push-over manoeuvres, and a 22-degree bank.

ATAL is an upgrade to the Air-to-Air Stinger launcher currently fielded on the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior and Blackhawk helicopters. It can launch all existing fielded Stinger configurations and provides enhanced system performance when launching Stinger Block 1. The ATAL upgrade replaces two existing electronics boxes with a single Stinger Universal Electronics (SUE). The SUE simplifies the interfaces between the Apache Longbow and the Stinger missile with MIL-STD-1553 digital data communication capability and a tri-service MIL-STD-1 760 connector interface. The improved ATAL is more reliable and lightweight and communicates real-time with the Apache Longbow fire control system.

"The effectiveness and flexibility of the Stinger missile combined with the lethality and reputation of the Longbow Apache helicopter is a great match" said Col. Robert F. Arnone, project manager of the U.S. Army's Short-Range Air Defence Project Office. "This combination represents a major contribution to full spectrum dominance."

The ATAL system, when used with the Apache Longbow's fire control system, provides the pilot with "fire-and-forget" counter-air capability for increased survivability of helicopter and crew and improved lethality against advanced air threats.

"From reconnaissance to attack, and peacekeeping to war, Apache Longbow is a key player in the Army's vision for the future," said Col. Cash Striplin, Training and Doctrine Command, Longbow system manager. "With the fire-and-forget Stinger air-to-air missile, we strengthen our armament capability and enhance the Apache's capability to shape the future battle space.

REF XQQAS XQQLD XQQAR