KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE
- ► The US Army tested the XM1225 30×113 mm fuze munition from an AH 64 Apache helicopter.
- ► The munition is designed as an airburst round to counter small unmanned aerial systems.
- ► Engagements were conducted against air to air targets at varying distances.
- ► The round is fired from the Apache’s M230 30 mm chain gun.
- ► The test supports broader US Army counter UAS modernization efforts.
US Army Tests XM1225 Anti Drone Munition From AH 64 Apache
The US Army anti drone munition program took a key step forward as the service tested the 30×113 mm XM1225 fuze round from an Boeing AH-64 Apache helicopter against aerial targets.
According to the United States Army, the live fire event involved engaging air to air targets at varying distances using the Apache’s M230 chain gun. The demonstration focused on validating the performance of the XM1225 programmable fuze round against unmanned aerial systems.
The test reflects the Army’s growing emphasis on counter UAS capability across its aviation and ground formations.
Expanding Apache Counter UAS Capability
The XM1225 is a 30×113 mm high explosive airburst munition designed to detonate at a programmed point in space. Fired from the Apache’s M230 cannon, the round is intended to create a fragmentation pattern effective against small drones.
The US Army anti drone munition effort addresses a clear operational challenge. Small, low cost drones have become a persistent threat in recent conflicts, used for reconnaissance, targeting, and direct attack roles.
Traditionally, the AH 64 Apache has been optimized for close air support, anti armor operations, and armed reconnaissance. By integrating a programmable airburst round, the platform gains an additional air to air capability tailored to counter Group 1 and Group 2 UAS threats.
Army officials have emphasized layered defense against drones, combining electronic warfare, directed energy systems, missiles, and gun based solutions. The XM1225 offers a comparatively low cost per shot option when engaging small aerial targets.
Technical Focus: 30×113 mm XM1225 Round
The 30×113 mm caliber is standard for the Apache’s M230 chain gun. What differentiates the XM1225 is its fuze technology, which enables airburst detonation rather than impact only effects.
Airburst munitions are designed to increase hit probability against small or maneuvering aerial targets. Instead of requiring a direct hit, the round can detonate near the drone, dispersing fragments within a defined radius.
The US Army anti drone munition test evaluated engagements at different ranges, helping determine effective burst timing and lethality envelopes.
Such testing is critical as the Army refines tactics, techniques, and procedures for aviation units facing drone swarms or individual hostile UAS.
Counter UAS In Modern Conflict
The proliferation of small drones in conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East has accelerated US military investment in counter UAS technologies. Senior defense leaders have repeatedly cited the need for scalable and affordable solutions.
The U.S. Department of Defense has prioritized integrated air and missile defense that includes protection against unmanned systems. Aviation assets such as the Apache are increasingly expected to contribute to that mission set.
By testing the XM1225 from the Apache, the Army is exploring how existing platforms can be adapted without requiring entirely new weapon systems.
This approach supports modernization goals while managing cost and integration timelines.
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