An AH-64 Apache helicopter launches an Altius 700 Medium-Range Launched Effect (MR-LE) during the Cross Domain Fires Concept Focused Warfighting Experiment (CDF CFWE) 26 Aviation Excursion at U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground | Photo: U.S. Army
The U.S. Army has conducted a demonstration in which an A700 Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) was launched from an AH-64E Apache helicopter, marking a step in efforts to integrate Launched Effects (LE) into existing aviation platforms. The test took place on February 26 as part of an accelerated development effort.
The project moved from an initial requirement to a working demonstration in under six months. Development began in late summer 2025 with the aim of enabling Apache helicopters to deploy Launched Effects. The effort continued despite a 43-day U.S. government shutdown during key stages, including development, fabrication and installation.
Multiple Army organisations and industry partners contributed to the effort. These included U.S. Army Transformation and Training Command, U.S. Army Futures and Concepts Command, U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, and Capability Program Executive Aviation, working under the Portfolio Acquisition Executive Maneuver Air structure.
The Army said integrating Launched Effects onto platforms such as the Apache is intended to expand reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities and extend the reach of kinetic and electronic warfare systems. It is also expected to support intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations and provide additional options for ground commanders.
The demonstration is part of a broader effort to integrate new capabilities into existing systems within shorter development timelines. The Army indicated that the project could serve as a model for future capability development and integration initiatives.
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