US Army fires Spike NLOS missiles in Poland’s northern coast

For the first time, the US Army has fired Israeli-made Spike NLOS (Non-Line Of Sight) missiles, which adds definitive precision on targeting far away moving targets, from its modern AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters in Europe.

These live-fire exercises took place in late August at Poland’s Ustka range and saw the Army’s 12th Combat Aviation Brigade successfully engage sea-based targets at a range of 25km, well beyond the reach of existing Hellfire and JAGM missiles.

The helicopters involved were upgraded AH-64Ev6 variants, equipped with an advanced suite of sensors, expanded communication links, and specialized Spike datalink systems, providing considerably greater situational awareness and weapons flexibility than previous models. This demonstration not only showcased US technological capability but also underscored the growing defense partnership with Poland.


The Polish Air Force Inspectorate observed the trials as Poland itself moves forward with plans to procure up to 96 AH-64Es, positioning itself as the world’s second-largest Apache operator behind the United States, once the helicopters are delivered in 2028.

What is the Spike NLOS missile

Spike NLOS stands apart from legacy missiles in several key ways. It can reach targets up to 20 miles (about 32 kilometers) away, triple the typical range of Hellfire-equipped Apaches. Its multi-mode guidance system includes GPS targeting, pre-programmed coordinates, and man-in-the-loop (MITL) control – which gives operators real-time infrared video from the missile’s nose and lets them retarget or abort in flight for maximum flexibility and safety. This loiter and flexible-attack capability is particularly valuable for striking moving or concealed targets as well as reducing the risk of collateral damage.

Implications for Poland and NATO

With Poland acquiring advanced Apaches and likely integrating Spike NLOS themselves, the strategic balance along NATO’s eastern flank is set to shift. The ability to strike from standoff ranges gives both deterrence and survivability a substantial boost, especially vital amid current heightened tensions with Russia. This event highlights robust US-Polish defense cooperation and signals technical advancement to potential adversaries.

FAQs
How does Spike NLOS improve mission safety and flexibility?
Unlike fire-and-forget missiles, Spike NLOS provides real-time video feedback and control, empowering operators to redirect or abort attacks based on changing situational awareness, enhancing both strike precision and safety.

Why is this capability important for the region?
Extended-range precision missiles allow allied forces to engage threats from behind the front lines or from concealed positions, responding to sophisticated air defense risks without exposing helicopters and crews to unnecessary danger.

Will Poland field Spike NLOS on its new Apaches?
Poland has not publicly announced a confirmed Spike NLOS purchase for the Apache. Given the successful demonstration and ongoing defense deals, it is highly likely that Poland’s future AH-64E fleet will feature Spike NLOS, enhancing interoperability and deterrence within NATO.