RIMPAC 2026 featured multiple allied helicopters employing precision anti-ship missiles in a SINKEX, notably U.S. Army AH-64 Apaches firing Spike NLOS at the ex-USS Mobile Bay cruiser. Using an operator-in-the-loop, ~20-mile-range missile from an attack helicopter against a full-size warship highlights a growing distributed maritime strike role for rotorcraft beyond traditional small-boat engagements.
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missileside: natofirst seen 2023-01-01
AH-64 Apache fires Spike NLOS at full-size ship during RIMPAC 2026 SINKEX
SOURCES
- The War Zone · https://www.twz.com/news-features/helicopters-just-took-center-stage-in-rim-of-the-pacific-sinking-exercisesHelicopters Just Took Center Stage In Rim Of The Pacific Sinking Exercises