Army Explores New Capabilities Amid Drone Threats

The US Army has tested the AH-64E Apache in a counter-drone role during an exercise in Germany, according to a release published on March 19, 2026. The 12th Combat Aviation Brigade used the helicopter’s existing weapons to engage and destroy drones in air-to-air engagements during Operation Skyfall at the Grafenwoehr Training Area. This marks a new engagement profile for Apache crews, who must develop tactics, techniques, and procedures for this mission. The exercise is part of the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative, which aims to show how attack helicopters can contribute to C-UAS missions alongside traditional air defense assets.