Helicopters Apache deployed in Afghanistan, they continue to successfully test the MUM-T technology. The program Manned-Unmanned Teaming, grants a pilot who is on a flying platform (helicopter or fighter) the ability to control one or more drones.
The new US doctrine foresees a constant evolution of automation in the operational theater, with human pilots destined to become field commanders. The Apache AH-64E of the first battalion of the 229 ° attack and reconnaissance regiment they have all been brought to the MUM-T standard.
The rotor force, once in flight, is connected with the drones Gray Eagle deployed in Afghanistan. The medium-range APR at long range, transmits all available information to the human operator in the helicopter and in real time. In this way the awareness of the operating context is maximized also thanks to the information of the synthetic aperture radar and to the Ground Moving Target Indicator that equip the drone.
The MUM-T capacity gives the operator in the rear to modify the flight path of the drone, replacing the terrestrial platform remotely. Although the Pentagon does not mention this ability in the program Manned-Unmanned Teaming, the possibility of directing the attack operations from the "flying position" appears obvious. Only the Apache AH-64E will receive the MUM-T capacity.
The latest evolution of the main attack helicopter of the American army, includes more powerful engines (701D), rotor blades made of composite material and a latest generation avionics and communication suite. This guarantees perfect integration with the APR. Respect to Delta (AH-64D), version E of theApache it also allows you to carry a greater load of ammunition and fuel. The innovations integrated in the E model give the helicopter all the technological advantages of the previous model, at a reduced weight.
The AH-64E is also 20 nodes faster than the previous model. Its maximum speed is 164 nodes.
Finally, the E version includes improvements to the transmission and structural features that give the same survival capacity as the A version, with a significantly lower weight.
In total, the army plans to acquire 690 AH-64E within the 2025: it can engage targets up to a maximum of eight kilometers.
(photo: Boeing)
